More than 1,600 Simmons students received degrees from the College at the 108th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 10 at the Bank of America Pavilion. Documentary filmmaker Jennifer Siebel Newsom delivered the morning Commencement speech, and sharing seven “pearls of wisdom” she has learned while overcoming personal and professional challenges.

“Surround yourself with those who support, champion, and love you...and don't forget to give it back,” she said.

Student speaker Shannon Deady ’13 reflected on the generosity and bravery of the Simmons community in the face of adversity, recalling stories of classmates shoveling out an elderly neighbor’s car following a snowstorm.

“We don’t wait to be asked,” she said. “We are self-starters, and we are closers.”

For the afternoon graduate ceremony, Simmons welcomed back one of the founding deans of the Simmons School of Management, Anne Jardim, who delivered the Commencement Address.

For more coverage of the 2013 Commencement ceremonies, including photos and tweets from the big day, click here.
]]> Congratulations Simmons Graduates! http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/438.php Simmons College President and Leadership News May 14, 2013

Simmons students shared research on everything from seahorse tails to web-based health education at the College’s 9th Annual Undergraduate Conference, held in the Linda K. Paresky Conference Center on April 24.

More than 200 undergraduate students participated in the event, which required them to submit a project proposal detailing their research with the support of a faculty mentor. On the day of the conference, students presented their work to faculty, staff, and other students in a series of panel and poster sessions. Projects this year included a 3D analysis of dyes used in museum artifacts and a study of the decomposition rates of invasive species found in the Muddy River.

“Everyone who attended was impressed by how accomplished the presenters were,” said Conference Director Terry Müller. “The participants were proud, too. As one of them said: ‘I was so nervous. I never thought I could do it. It was exciting!’”

Pictured above: Ann Huynh and Ida Bixho with their project, Physical and Chemical Properties of Silver Chlorhexidine Complexes.

The weekend of April 12-14, Simmons hosted more than 100 alumnae/i, faculty, staff, and friends at the 2013 Black Alumnae/i Symposium. This special event, held every five years, invites guests to celebrate their gifts and the power of their presence.

Numerous awards were given to outstanding members of the alumnae/i community, including Kelley Chunn ’90GS; Adunni Slackman Anderson ’73; Theresa Hooper Peterson ’85; Charlotte M. Streat ’00SM; Alicia D. Canady Adamson ’03; Chantel S. Adams ’09; Elizabeth B. Rawlins ’67GS, ’03HD; Patricia D. Phipps ’75; and Cheryl Doddy Howard ’71. Dr. Tererai Trent, Oprah Winfrey’s “all-time favorite guest,” gave an inspiring presentation as the keynote speaker.

In honor of the Black Alumnae/i Symposium, Trustee Roslyn Watson ’71 has challenged alumnae/i to raise funds for the Black Alumnae/i Symposium Legacy Scholarship. She will match every gift made to the scholarship fund through May, up to $150,000. Gifts to the fund may be made online. ]]> Black Alumnae Symposium Held at Simmons http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/435.php Simmons College President and Leadership News April 29, 2013

For the second year in a row, Simmons hosted international Fulbright students on campus for a customized re-entry program. Approximately 100 Fulbright women from all over the world took part in the four-day program in April, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

The women participating in this seminar came to the United States through the Fulbright Foreign Student Program to earn masters or doctoral degrees. They are nearing the end of their programs, and are preparing to return to their home countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Western Hemisphere, Southeast Asia, and South and Central Asia. The scholars are students of journalism, health sciences, engineering, information technology, and business administration, among other fields of study.

During the seminar, students explored issues related to women’s leadership and cultural, gender, and the professional re-entry challenges they may encounter upon return to their home countries – skills that will make them more successful in pursuing future professional opportunities.

Anya Kekilova, who lives in Turkmenistan and studied engineering, said she appreciated learning about leadership from a female perspective.

“All these years I studied engineering, so leadership is a change,” she said. “We are all professionals, but sometimes it’s hard as women. I always have some doubts, I know that I am capable, but I don’t always know how to speak about it.”

In their four days at Simmons, the women attended classes taught primarily by Simmons faculty on topics such as goal setting, networking, leadership potential, negotiation, and communication style. Joining them was Susan Ness, Vice Chair of the Fulbright Scholarship Board and a Senior Fellow at the Center for Transatlantic Relations at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies; and Marjorie Margolies, former U.S. Congresswoman and Woodrow Wilson Fellow.

“Bringing so many wonderful people together with so many diverse backgrounds is possible because of Fulbright,” said Tahsina Haque, a Fulbright scholar who is an assistant professor at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology in Bangladesh. “It’s a great experience.”

This is the second time Simmons has hosted a re-entry seminar for Fulbright scholars through the U.S. Department of State. Last year, in a highly competitive process, Simmons was selected to host 30 Fulbright women from Latin America.
]]> Simmons Prepares Fulbright Students for Re-entry http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/434.php Simmons College President and Leadership News April 25, 2013

Simmons was well represented at the Strong Women Strong Girls (SWSG) annual Strong Awards event April 4, a celebration of SWSG mentors and program partners.

Shannon Curran ’13, received the Above and Beyond Mentor Award and Haley Collins ’14 received the Strongest Match Award. Barbara Lee ’67 was presented with the 2013 Spark Award by Hannah Raiche, a senior at Simmons, a Barbara Lee fellow, and an SWSG mentor.

“Through her lifelong dedication to women and politics and her fellowship program at Simmons College, Barbara Lee has afforded me the opportunity to form a special bond with a strong female mentor who has provided me with invaluable insight, wisdom, support, and guidance,” Raiche said. “This has not only been greatly beneficial, but will undoubtedly be a crucial component to my own success, and for that I am eternally grateful.”

Strong Women Strong Girls is a nationally recognized multi-generational mentoring program that fosters leadership skills, a sense of female community, and a commitment to service among women and girls of all ages.

Pictured above: Boston City Council candidate Michele Wu, Hannah Raiche, SWSG Executive Director Amy Kingman, Barbara Lee, State Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz, and Boston City Councilor Ayanna Pressley.
]]> Simmons Students Recognized by Women and Girls' Non-Profit http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/426.php Simmons College President and Leadership News April 24, 2013

This summer, Simmons College with Makerere University of Uganda, will co-host the 18th Biennial International Consortium for Social Development Conference in Kampala, Uganda, from July 15 to 19.

The conference, "Opening New Frontiers in Social Development: Facing Opportunities and Challenges," will focus on emerging issues of social development, including health, government and non-government roles, social justice, and human rights. The International Consortium for Social Development (ICSD) is an organization of practitioners, scholars, and students in the human services.

Social Work Professor Hugo Kamya, a member of the ICSD board, says that the conference is a significant entrée for the College onto the global leadership stage. "The Simmons community has always been a pioneering entity in cultivating and supporting its leaders," said Kamya. "This conference is a continuation of that work."

Kamya said that participation by Simmons students and faculty is crucial. Click here to learn how to apply.

Below, Professor Kamya discusses the significance of the international gathering and why international experience is good for all students.

What is the conference about?

The 2013 ICSD conference in Kampala, Uganda, is about social development and the direct path it offers to various global issues, academic fields, social themes, and communities.

While this conference aims to reveal emerging issues of, and approaches to, social development, the conference is also focused on long-standing concerns including Millennium Development Goals; policy limits; poverty and hunger; global climate change; continuous marginalization and social exclusion; issues of social justice and human rights; mobilization of governmental, non-governmental, and civil society institutions.

Additionally, this conference is about leadership. The Simmons community has always been a pioneering entity in cultivating and supporting its leaders. This conference is a continuation of that work. With students and faculty attending this conference, Simmons College is on a global stage, exchanging expertise and identifying strategic approaches to building a future filled with promise.

Why is the conference important?

This conference is important because people are important. Whether a street vendor or the president of a leading nation, social development impacts us all. This conference focuses on the interconnectedness of cultures, identities, governments, and societies. During a time when we hear stories of tragedy on a daily basis, it is important to learn of the great work that people are doing to meet challenges and dismantle systems that prevent the advancement of our global community.

Also, we want to open new frontiers in social development. These issues have been talked about a lot in the past. How can we look beyond the discussions that have been heard about this issue and bring the conversation into new places and new frontiers.

The hope is that it will touch these issues and spark people into thinking about them differently in order to bring about change.

Lastly, this conference is about identifying our commonalities across differences. It is not a surprise that within the 200+ abstract submissions we received for the conference, representing more than 26 countries, there are common themes being researched, discussed, and reviewed. Just to name a few: gender equity, the youth movements, human rights, global warming, LGBTQ movements, healthy communities, and domestic violence.

What is the significance of having it in Uganda?

Uganda has been at the forefront of many of these issues as a developing nation. One of its success stories is the reduction of HIV/AIDS. Uganda has spearheaded an education program that is being exported all over sub-saharan Africa.

This is the second time this conference is being held in Africa. Prior to this, it was held in South Africa in 1999. As a developing nation, Uganda is the first to hold this conference.

Why is it important for all students to have an international experience, regardless of their chosen profession?

We look to students and youth to be the future leaders in social development. A few weeks ago, I was in Uganda and met with the U.S. ambassador to Uganda. His interest and work with the youth, so-called "Generation Change," was clearly evident. The youth are the future of social development. The youth must be engaged.

Simmons's participation (among students and faculty) also is crucial. It is a way to showcase our interest and investment in global leadership.

(Photo by Jennifer Knott 'SW13: Beatrice, a 62-year old teacher living with HIV, and her kindergarten students at "Beatrice's School" in Uganda, July 2012.)

Dear Members of the Simmons Community:

Yesterday was a sad and frightening day here in Boston. I was in Omaha, Nebraska at a conference when I learned of the events unfolding at home. I spent the next several hours getting information, disadvantaged by cell phone and iPad access difficulties. I finally learned about the most important activity of the moment: ensuring the safety of our students, and ascertaining the whereabouts of as many as possible. My first priority was to get back to campus. I was unable to get a flight home last evening, and left early this morning, arriving around lunchtime.

When something as horrible as this happens, the range of feelings we experience is as broad as the number of people affected. Now that I am home, these events are even more shocking. Before I speak more about that, I want to clarify what information we have about our community members.

To our knowledge, no one in the immediate Simmons community, that is, faculty, staff, or students, was injured in the bombings. We do not yet know about alumnae/i, close friends of the College, people with whom we work in the various practicum sites and agencies, neighboring institutions, and other experiential education opportunities open to our students and staff. We know that some of the victims were known or even related to some of our community members. If you are aware of anyone who has been injured in our greater community, please let me know.

We do know that at least scores of members of the Simmons community were at the Marathon finish line, either as observers, volunteers or helpers in the first aid tents. Others were in some of the hospitals, which received victims, or comforting those people later in the day.

To provide an opportunity for the Simmons community to come together for time to share our feelings and comfort one another, we will hold a gathering tomorrow from noon to 1:00 PM in the Common Grounds Café. I encourage all to take a break from your routine, and I hope wherever possible faculty can release students from classes just before noon to make attendance possible for the greatest number.

While we all try to come to terms with what has happened, we must do so guided by the values that are our traditions: a collective investment in community, and collaboration for the common good. We can and must support each other in the coming days and weeks as we seek to make sense of this tragedy. Inherent in our values is a spirit of inclusiveness that results in openness and trust, encouraging us to work together for a better life. We must understand that the perpetrators of such wanton damage will be identified through proper investigative techniques, and not by the speculation of the public street.

I would like to close by turning back to the feelings we experience in these tragic times. I remember living in Alexandria, Virginia in the aftermath of 9/11, and feeling so confused about how my own hometown was the launch site of the two planes which hit the twin towers. Yesterday and today, I have felt the same confusion about the bombings. Why Boston? Why such inhumanity? How do we ever return to normalcy? What can we possibly learn from such unspeakable evil? In the end, we as human beings must find a way to accept that there are some things we will never understand, and that the only way to triumph against such horror is to live our very best lives in spite of it.

I want to let everyone know that all scheduled events on campus will continue as planned this week. In addition to tomorrow’s community gathering in the Common Grounds Café, there will be several opportunities throughout the week to discuss yesterday’s events. Please find a complete list at the end of this e-mail.

I want to say how very grateful I am to know each and every one of you, and for your contributions to this wonderful community. I hope to see as many of you as possible tomorrow.

-Helen

Tuesday, 4/16
7:30PM
Team Room, Holmes Sports Center
Athletes, Coaches, Athletics Staff Gathering

7:45PM
Residence Campus Quad
Take Back the Night Vigil

Wednesday, 4/17
Noon
Common Grounds, Main College Building
Simmons Community-wide Gathering

*Counseling Center Staff will be available to meet with students in the Student Activities area on the lower level of the Main College Building starting from 11AM-Noon in the Student Activities Area and from 1-3:30 pm in C-105 following the community gathering.

3:30-5:00PM
S-183, Science Building
School of Nursing and Health Sciences Community Gathering

Thursday, 4/18
11:30AM-12:30PM
Student Activities Area, Lower Level, MCB
Counseling Center Staff available to meet with Community Members

Friday, 4/19
2:30-3:30PM
Student Activities Area, Lower Level, MCB
Counseling Center Staff available to meet with Community Members
]]> The Day After the Tragedy http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/424.php Simmons College President and Leadership News April 12, 2013

On April 16, Simmons College will host an expert panel and discussion surrounding the crisis in Mali. “A Sudden Onset of Terror: The Sad Case of Mali,” will be held at the Simmons School of Management, M223 from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The discussion will focus on the 2012 rebellion in the African country, which was hijacked by Islamist extremists with forces linked to Al-Qaeda that subsequently pushed the country to the brink of disaster. Few Malians anticipated the sudden failure of their once well-regarded democratic government, the disintegration of their country’s armed forces, and the deliberate destruction of its cultural heritage. Although a French-led military intervention aided the country, Mali still remains damaged and represents a major concern for neighboring countries Algeria and Nigeria.

The evening will be moderated by Mark M. Bellamy, Warburg Chair of International Relations at Simmons and former U.S. Ambassador to Kenya. Among the panelists featured are Colonel Birame Diop, director of Partners for Democratic Change (Dakar) and of the Africa Institute for Security Sector Transformation (Dakar); and Kate Almquist Knopf, Visiting Policy Fellow at the Center for Global Development and former assistant administrator for Africa, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).


]]> Simmons Hosts Warburg International Relations Panel: “A Sudden Onset of Terror: The Sad Case of Mali” April 16 http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/423.php Simmons College President and Leadership News April 10, 2013

President Helen Drinan was recently honored by Girls’ LEAP during their Annual Gala at the Boston Harbor Hotel March 28.

Surrounded by family and Simmons colleagues, Drinan accepted the award on behalf of Simmons College as an institutional honoree. This award is given annually by Girls’ LEAP, a Boston non-profit, which focuses on the emotional and physical health of girls and young women.

Former honorees include Diane Patrick, wife of Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick; and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts CEO Andrew Dreyfus. During the event, Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren provided a video recognizing Simmons College for its partnership with Girls’ LEAP.

Girls’ LEAP is an important community partner for Simmons, and works closely with the Scott/Ross Center for Community Service and the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change. Since 2006, more than 60 Simmons women have completed Girls’ LEAP intensive training; more than 30 women have gone on to serve as assistant instructors in programs all over Boston.

This fall, Shauna Deleon, a Simmons Community Service Student Leader, was honored as the New England Patriot Charitable Foundation Volunteer of the Week for her three years of volunteerism and leadership at Girls’ LEAP.
]]> President Drinan Honored by Girls Organization http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/422.php Simmons College President and Leadership News April 8, 2013

With spring underway and the last day of classes approaching, many students are looking forward to a much-needed break. Not so for junior Laini Cassis, who is ramping up her training in preparation for the ultimate summer challenge.

Come summer, Cassis will be bicycling 4,000 miles from South Carolina to Santa Cruz, California to raise money for affordable housing projects. The trip is organized by the non-profit Bike & Build, which has contributed more than $4 million to affordable housing efforts over the past decade.

The cross-country trip will take Cassis and other riders about three months to complete. When they’re not on their bikes, the riders will be helping to build affordable housing at pre-arranged work sites along the route.

Cassis, who regularly commutes by bike in Boston, has been involved in community service since her freshman year, participating in Habitat for Humanity and co-leading an Alternative Spring Break (ASB) trip through the Scott/Ross Center. She still keeps in touch with a woman whose home she built with other Simmons volunteers last spring, during an ASB trip to the Pittsburgh area.

“Through ASB I gained so many inspiring experiences and met folks who truly warmed my heart,” Cassis said. “Everyone deserves an affordable home that they can live in. This isn’t just an issue that is taking place in some other city, it is happening in Boston.”

Cassis has committed to raising $4,500 for the cause, and has gotten creative with her fundraising, setting up a typewriter in Quadside Cafe and selling poems for $1 each. She’ll also be hosting stationary bike-a-thons in the Fens lobby on April 18 and 25, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

To donate to Cassis online, click here.

Photo of Cassis by Simmons junior Taylor Nealand.
]]> Student Bikes Cross-Country for Affordable Housing http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/421.php Simmons College President and Leadership News March 28, 2013

More than 75 guests braved snow and wind to attend the International Women’s Day Breakfast held at Simmons March 8. This annual event is now in its 16th year and has been held at Simmons since 2001.

“As the only women’s college in the city of Boston it is an honor for Simmons College to host this event, which focuses attention on issues that women face locally and globally,” said Diane Hammer, Director of the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change.

This year, a panel of experts spoke about “Women and Hunger: Putting Food on the Table.” Speakers included Ellen Parker, executive director of Project Bread; Randy Albelda, professor of economics and senior research fellow at the Center for Social Policy UMASS; and Elaine DeRosa, executive director of the Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee. Jacqueline Cooke, executive director of the U.S. Department of Labor Women's Bureau, moderated the discussion. Attendees represented many of the major women and girl serving organizations in Massachusetts.

Each year, a planning team representing approximately 15 women’s organizations works with the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change to plan the breakfast. Some of the topics discussed in previous years include: women in the green economy, women’s economic self-sufficiency, violence against women, and creating equality in women’s health.

]]> Simmons Hosts International Women’s Day Breakfast http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/414.php Simmons College President and Leadership News March 4, 2013

As Africa’s newest independent nation in 1991, Eritrea quickly slid from hopefulness to conflict within a few short years. After three decades of dispute with neighboring countries, Eritrea has since been in a state of despair, and is seen as a regional outcast and impoverish police state.

On March 5, Simmons College will host the Warburg of International Relations panel discussion “Eritrea: When Does the Agony End?”, from 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. in the Main College Building (C101). The talk will focus on the country’s current status, including the tragedy and proliferation of human trafficking in recent years, and the prospects for positive political change. The panel discussion is free and open to the public.

Among the panelists featured will be Senior Lecturer Communications Professor, and Eritrean expert Dan Connell, who wrote a recent op-ed in the Boston Globe on Eritrea; Warburg Chair of International Relations and former U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Mark Bellamy; and Adjunct Professor at City University of New York and Director of the International Commission for Eritrean Refugees Yebio Woldemariam.

The country’s current political status has been in repression under President Isaias Afwerki, who has caused a dwindling hope in democracy or respect for human rights. Despite numerous hardships, the country has remained resilient and confident that fundamental change cannot be delayed any further.

Growing up as an African-American child in a racially segregated Birmingham, Alabama, Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski III marched in the historic Children’s Crusade during the Civil Rights Movement, and learned firsthand the power that even children have to make a difference in their future and to help those around them.

Fast forward 50 years. Dr. Hrabowski, now president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), uses this same philosophy of commitment and support of others to help students excel academically, particularly in STEM fields where women and minorities are underrepresented.

Through its nationally acclaimed Meyerhoff Scholars program, which Dr. Hrabowski co-founded in 1988, 41 percent of UMBC's 2010 graduates received degrees in science and engineering fields, well above the national average of 25 percent.

What do Gloria Steinem, Bread & Roses, Whitney Young, Women on Boards, banned books, Simmons Global Day of Service, Stand against Racism, and the Boston Citywide Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast have in common?

They are all part of the SimmonsPalooza, which launched in December with “Onawumi Jean Moss: The Soulful Storyteller,” continued with Simmons students representing the College at the MLK Jr. breakfast, and is lining up events and activities for 2013 and beyond around the theme: “1965 to 2015: Changing Our World Through Social Justice and Activism.”

SimmonsPalooza’s goals are to:

• Celebrate Simmons’s history of increasing inclusiveness – and the ongoing struggle, at Simmons, in the United States, and the world, for social justice and inclusion.
• Bring together, highlight, and support existing and new diversity and inclusion programs and activities of the College.
• Build ongoing celebrations of Simmons’s social activism into the traditions of the College (e.g., May Day) and annual commemorations and celebrations (e.g., Women’s History Month).
• Create a greater sense of community and student-centeredness.

For 35 Simmons College sophomores, winter break was about more than just relaxing at home. For two weeks in January, this select group of students remained on campus for the Simmons World Challenge, an intensive program where students develop solutions to some of the world’s toughest problems aided by faculty members from across the college in various disciplines. This year’s two themes were: immigration and migration, and the failures of modern media as related to social justice issues.

On January 30, the 10 student teams had a chance to present their creative solutions to members of the Simmons community, as well as to representatives from nonprofits and corporations such as Open Society Foundation, The Hyams Foundation, General Electric, ANN Inc., Solidago Foundation, and Rest Devices. Student projects included a marketing program for immigrant entrepreneurs, a political action campaign in support of the Violence Against Women Act, a news application for busy mothers, and a YouTube channel for immigrant families seeking health care information.

Previous World Challenge programs focused the issues of World Hunger and Poverty.

Click here to watch the Simmons World Challenge video, created by sophomore Sarah Galvez.

Photo Caption: Participants in this year’s World Challenge presented their research to the Simmons Community Jan. 30.

More than 150 middle and high school girls attended this year’s Girl Scout Leadership Conference at Simmons College Sunday, Jan. 27, and heard keynote addresses by U.S. Attorney Carmen Ortiz and other influential women leaders.

Ortiz is the first Hispanic and the first woman to represent Massachusetts as United States Attorney. She was joined by afternoon keynote speaker Marcela Aldaz-Matos, executive vice president for the Boston Chapter of ALPFA, a leading non-profit Latino professional association. Aldaz-Matos is a graduate of the Simmons School of Management.

The day ended with a showing of the film Shooting Beauty, a documentary that tells the story of a photography program for people with disabilities. The filmmaker and two people featured in the film were present for a live discussion following the screening.

The Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts is an important community partner for Simmons College and the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change. In fall 2012, the two organizations collaborated on a special research project and conference “Dreaming Big: What’s Gender Got to Do With It?” to discuss the career choices for middle school girls.

Pictured above: Simmons student Elizabeth Melo ’14, Carmen Ortiz, and Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts CEO Ruth Bramson.

Simmons College President Helen Drinan discusses the latest round of Super Bowl ads that present women in a sexualized manner. How does the negative portrayal of women in media affect our society at large? Read President Drinan’s thoughts on the Huffington Post.

]]> Sexism & the Super Bowl http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/407.php Simmons College President and Leadership News January 29, 2013

Simmons junior Shauna Deleon was recently named a “Difference Maker of the Week” by the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation. As part of this honor, Deleon was recognized during half-time at the Patriots/Dolphins game on Dec. 30.

Deleon was selected for her work as a Teaching Woman at Girls’ LEAP, where she began volunteering in her first semester at Simmons through the Scott/Ross Center for Community Service. Deleon teaches physical self-defense skills to groups of at-risk girls in Boston, and leads discussions and activities around identity development, conflict resolution, and setting healthy boundaries. Now in her third year of service to Girls’ LEAP, Deleon has become an AmeriCorps “Student Leader in Service” and will complete 300 hours of service by May 2013.

Girls’ LEAP is Boston-based nonprofit that empowers girls and young women to value and champion their own safety and well-being through self-defense and empowerment training for girls 8-18. Girls’ LEAP is one of Simmons's many important community partners, and works closely with the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change.

Photo: Patriots safety Patrick Chung with Shauna Deleon. Photo Credit: New England Patriots.
]]> Simmons Student Honored by Patriots for Service http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/396.php Simmons College President and Leadership News December 19, 2012

More than 85 girls and their parents attended the Science Club for Girls’ “Show Me the Science” fair Dec. 8, at Simmons College. The event was hosted by the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change and the biology, chemistry, and physics departments.

The event included interactive booths where girls could experience fun, hands-on activities and demonstrations related to science. A public health booth offered facts about malaria and allowed the girls to climb inside a mosquito bed; a biology table featured an interactive beading activity based on personal genetic characteristics; and chemistry and physics booths had multiple demonstrations illustrating the importance of nano materials in everyday life.

The Science Club for Girls is a Cambridge, MA nonprofit focused on connecting girls in K-12 with female mentor scientists through free science and engineering programs.
]]> Girls’ Science Fair Hosted at Simmons College http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/395.php Simmons College President and Leadership News December 17, 2012

A blog post by President Helen Drinan appeared on the Huffington Post Dec. 14, 2012 offering five tips for dads to help their daughters succeed. In the post, which is also pasted below, President Drinan encourages fathers of girls to take an active role in building self-esteem and confidence in their daughters.

To view the Huffington Post blog, submit a comment, or share online, click here. Watch for more blogs from President Drinan on issues related to women and leadership, and view her first blog here.

A Gift for the Holidays: 5 Tips for Dads to Help their Daughters Succeed in Life

As president of a women's college, I frequently travel across the country and speak with parents. Increasingly, I have been talking to fathers who want to know more about what they can do to influence their daughters' successful futures. At a recent conference, the father of a young girl approached me, saying he had heard that our college did a lot of work advocating for girls' and women's leadership and success. He wanted to know what he could do to help his own daughter.

Tip 1: Mistakes are good. For a variety of reasons, girls and women do not embrace risk as easily as men do. Women and girls often see failure as a permanent scar, rather than something that is an opportunity for growth. Some of my most valuable life lessons have come from trying something risky and new, and failing. Girls should not be afraid to make mistakes -- or fail; everyone does this and they will learn with each mistake how to grow and become better. When the opportunity arises, dads, you can talk to your daughter about what she learned from her mistakes and how she has grown from them. And you can share some of your own failings with her, too.

Tip 3: Take up space. This tip comes from our friend Rachel Simmons, best-selling author and co-founder of the Girls Leadership Institute. For a variety of reasons, girls are afraid to physically take up space. (Ask your daughter to sit or stand like a girl, and then ask her to reenact how a boys sits or stands. You will find the differences -- and the space required -- remarkable!) If girls are not comfortable taking up physical space, this can eventually translate into discomfort with their own thoughts, ideas, and opinions -- some the important building blocks of leadership. In order to help girls develop their own voice, help them feel comfortable having a strong presence in any space. So dads, tell your girls to go ahead, and sprawl out on the couch during your movie marathons!

Tip 5: Boys can help too: So this is really a tip for dads to give to sons. We live in a culture where boys and men are encouraged to assert their authority. This oftentimes leads to aggressive behavior against girls or women. Dads can influence behavior by encouraging their sons (and sons' friends) to challenge these traits and treat girls and women with the respect they deserve. Doing so will create an environment in which both girls and boys can succeed and ultimately improve the world.

Simmons alumna Gabrielle Rosetti '11, Program Director for Invest in Girls, and Amanda Hoffman, Executive Director of Invest in Girls, recently visited with President Helen Drinan at Simmons College. Invest in Girls is a nonprofit located in Boston that is focused on girls and financial literacy.

Pictured above: Hoffman, Rosetti, and President Drinan.

Today, Simmons College hosts an expert panel discussion on achieving more gender diversity in U.S. corporate boardrooms, sponsored by 2020 Women on Boards. 2020 Women on Boards aims to raise the percentage of women on U.S. corporate boards to 20 percent or greater by the year 2020.

Among the panelists speaking is Roslyn Watson, president and founder of Watson Venture, a real estate investment company. Watson currently serves on the Boards of Directors of American Express Bank, FSB, an OCC regulated thrift where she serves on the Audit and Risk Committee, The Dreyfus Laurel Mutual Funds, where she chairs the Compensation Committee, and the Dreyfus Institutional Cash Management Funds. She is also a trustee of the Hyams Foundation, a private foundation in Boston and Pathfinder International, an NGO which funds women's health and reproduction programs in 60 countries in Africa, Asia and South America.

Below, Watson shares what she's learned about the value women bring to the boardroom, what they can do to prepare to be on boards, and the surprising facts you might not know about what's involved in this role.

What is the value that women bring to the Boards they serve?

All good Board members bring their best business judgment, professional expertise, and energy to their Board work. Boards with both women and men benefit from a wider range of perspectives and problem solving approaches than Boards that are single sex.

What can young women do to prepare to be on Boards?

It's never too soon to start learning the leadership skills that can lead to being asked to join a Board. For starters, young women can learn to say "yes" when they are asked to take on a leadership responsibility. This can be in a student club, student government association, church or other religious organization, scout troop, political organization, or in a non-profit organization you care about. Volunteer organizations are great training grounds to learn about meeting protocol, conflict-resolution and board management role differentiation. The more of this kind of experience a woman has the better because it allows you to answer confidently when you are asked, "Have you ever encountered this situation?"

Having a reasonable level of financial literacy is another requisite for Board responsibility whether in the for-profit or non-profit world. Young women should be sure to include course work in economics, finance, and accounting in their college studies and seek opportunities to apply and test this learning in internships or other work experiences.

Another thing young women can do is actively try to raise their professional profile by becoming active in a professional organization

What might people be surprised to know about being on a Board?

I think most people think Board members are far more directive and make many more decisions than we actually do. In fact, Board members are far more facilitative than most people might think and achieve quite a bit of their effectiveness from influencing, rather than directing the executives who work with them. Another thing people might be surprised to know is how much of the work conducted by Boards actually occurs outside the Board room...some of that in social settings but also quite a bit in pre-meetings, phone calls, and emails.

Watson has an undergraduate degree from Simmons College, and a master's degree in management from MIT Sloan School of Management.

Above photo: Panelists Joanna T. Lau, Carolee Friedlander, Roslyn Watson, Moderator Helen Drinan, Gail Deegan.

Five women presidents of five schools in the Fenway area gathered at a book signing event on Nov. 26 for Bill Brett's book, Boston, Inspirational Women. The five presidents: Sister Janet Eisner of Emmanuel College, Simmons President Helen Drinan, Zorica Pantic of Wentworth Institute of Technology, Jackie Jenkins-Scott of Wheelock College, and Kay Sloan of Mass College of Art and Design (now retired), are photographed together in the book, which features portraits and candid photographs of local women by Boston Globe photographer Bill Brett and his daughter, Kerry Brett. The event, hosted by the Colleges of the Fenway, featured a panel discussion, "Paths to the College Presidency," moderated by television personality Kelley Tuthill from WCVB in Boston.

Pictured above: Eisner, Drinan, Pantic, Current Massachusetts College of Art and Design President Dawn Barrett, Jenkins-Scott, and Sloan.
]]> President Drinan Featured in 'Inspirational Women' Book http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/388.php Simmons College President and Leadership News December 1, 2012

For the next three years, the theme of World AIDS Day (Dec. 1) is "Getting to Zero: Zero New HIV Infections. Zero Discrimination. Zero AIDS related deaths."

Below Simmons College of Arts and Sciences Dean Renée White – a leading expert in gender, race, and HIV/AID – shares 10 things you should know about HIV/AIDS to help make this theme a reality.

More than 100 attendees from girl serving organizations in greater Boston gathered at Simmons College Nov. 8 for the conference "Dreaming Big: What's Gender Got to do With It?" The conference was sponsored by Simmons and Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts as a way to discuss findings from their recent collaborative study on career aspirations of middle school girls.

The study looked at more than 1,600 middle school students in New England, New York, and Pennsylvania and found that girls see more limited career options than their male classmates, particularly when it comes to emerging fields such as STEM – science, technology, engineering, and math.

The daylong conference featured an in-depth look at the key findings of the study, and included insight from girl serving organizations including Big Sister Association of Greater Boston, Girls' LEAP, Science Club for Girls, and Girls Inc.

Featured speakers included Rachel Simmons, noted author, educator and co-founder of the Girls Leadership Institute; Ruth N. Bramson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, and Simmons College President Helen Drinan.

"The attendance by girl serving organizations was gratifying, and the outcomes rich for all of us," said Drinan.

Above photo: Mia Roberts, VP of Recruitment and Community Partnerships, Big Sister Association of Great Boston; Ruth Bramson, CEO, Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts; Simmons College President Helen Drinan; Connie Chow, Executive Director of the Science Club for Girls; Patricia Driscoll, COO of Girls Inc.
]]> Leaders of Girl Serving Organizations Convene at Simmons http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/385.php Simmons College President and Leadership News November 26, 2012

An op-ed by Simmons President Helen Drinan and Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts Chief Executive Officer Ruth Bramson appeared in the Boston Business Journal November 23. The op-ed, which is pasted below, discusses a recent study conducted by the Simmons College Center for Gender in Organizations and the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts on how middle school girls view their careers options. The study was the focus of a recent conference at Simmons titled "Dreaming Big: What's Gender Got to Do With It?"

Girls need STEM encouragement

By Ruth Bramson and Helen Drinan

Simmons Alumna Barbara Lee was the guest of honor at an event celebrating Emerge Massachusetts's 5-year anniversary. Emerge Massachusetts seeks to increase the number of Democratic women in public office through an intensive political training program. Barbara Lee, Emerge's Woman of the Year, is a national leader in advancing women's equality and representation in politics. She founded and leads the Barbara Lee Political Office and the Barbara Lee Family Foundation, which has provided funding to Simmons for the Lee Family Foundation Intern Fellowship Program. For the past six years, over 80 young women have benefited from this mentor-based internship program, which exposes young women to the nuts and bolts of Massachusetts political leadership through practical experience, thereby increasing the number of young women who enter the pipeline of political leadership.

Pictured above: Lee Foundation Interns Molly Bohannon, Carla Moreira Gomes, and Hannah Elizabeth Raiche with Barbara Lee and Associate Professor Leanne Doherty.
]]> Barbara Lee Honored at Emerge Event http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/383.php Simmons College President and Leadership News November 19, 2012

Essay contest winner Mary Kate Quigley '13, President Drinan, second place winner Molly Maidman '13, Professor Nelson and Archivist Jason Wood toasted with fall apple cider. 

The Simmons community celebrated the birthday of College founder John Simmons October 31 with an afternoon program and artfully arranged cupcakes. Professor and Elizabeth J. McCandless Chair in Entrepreneurship Teresa Nelson delivered a Founder's Day speech reflecting on 19th-century Boston and the challeges women faced. "John Simmons was a visionary in that he invested in a future – he saw an opportunity for women that many didn't – he was an entrepreneur," she said. Nelson and President Drinan also recognized Mary Kate Quigley '13 as the winner of the 2012 John Simmons Essay Contest. This year's contest asked students to propose a philanthropic gift that would further the College's student-centered culture. Mary Kate proposed that Simmons create a school-wide mentorship program that would connect first-year students, seniors, and young alumnae to advance student-centeredness and increase alumnae participation.

Click here to view a "Then and Now" slideshow showing how the College has changed since its founding in 1899.

Dean Renée White delivered a speech entitled "Sisterhood: there is power in caring for each other" at the Audre Lord Cancer Awareness Brunch hosted by Fenway Health. The event was a celebration for women whose lives have been affected by cancer.

Left to right: Natalie Kirkham '13,Brianna Bouchard '14,Kathryn Mead '13, Roxanne Groomer '13, Dean Renée White, and Professor Dawn Belkin-Martinez. ]]> Dean White Delivers Keynote Address http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/380.php Simmons College President and Leadership News November 5, 2012

Girls leadership expert and bestselling author Rachel Simmons visited Simmons College the week of October 22 to lead a three-day professional development training for adults who work with adolescent girls. The workshop "Girl Meets World" is sponsored by the Girls Leadership Institute, a national non-profit organization. The event was hosted on the Simmons College campus through the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change (SILC).

The program teaches those who work with girls how to help facilitate girls' critical skills for self-expression, emotional self-awareness, and interpersonal efficacy. For more information, click here. 
]]> Girls Leadership Expert Holds Workshop at Simmons http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/378.php Simmons College President and Leadership News

A blog post by President Helen Drinan appeared on the Huffington Post Oct. 24, 2012 in the website's College section. In the post, which is also pasted below, President Drinan encourages women to stand up for themselves in the workplace, and describes adversities she overcame while working in the banking industry.

To view the Huffington Post blog, submit a comment, or share online, click here. Watch for more blogs from President Drinan on issues related to women and leadership.

Women Must Stand Up for Themselves in the Workplace

By Helen Drinan

By this time each fall, our campus is in full swing with students and faculty rushing to and from classes, meetings, and all the various activities. I can't help but think back to my own years at Mt. Holyoke College, before I started my career in business and -- much later -- in higher education.

Like me, the students at Simmons College, a small liberal arts women's undergraduate college in Boston where I am president, have the same hope for a bright future. They all want the opportunity to prove their worth and accomplish their career goals. Unfortunately, many of these women may face some of the same very difficult workplace challenges that I did -- a disappointing reality for those of us who had hoped that 40 years of work in support of women's advancement, increased education, and workplace improvements would bring about more significant results. Like me, they will develop their own personal stories of hard-knocks and lessons learned.

Certainly, women occupy more roles of power today, but women who ascend and retain positions of leadership remain few. While women make up more than half of the number of students in higher education and outperform their male classmates, (in number of advanced degrees earned in all fields but science and technology) that has not translated into gender equity or a significant increase in leadership roles.

There are many reasons why women have not achieved more positions of leadership, including access to education, gender stereotypes, and workplace culture. There is another reason, I believe, and I experienced it personally. Women need to develop personal fortitude and clear strategies to navigate complex male-dominated workforces. Future women leaders need us to explain to them clearly that there may be many difficult days ahead and they will need to build up their "armor" to prepare for those times. I believe the more women talk about their own very challenging times and what they did in response, the more we can help the next generation of women leaders excel.

When I was working in middle management in banking, I faced an extremely challenging personal and professional situation. I worked for a male leader who was emotionally and verbally abusive. He was personally hostile to me, making disparaging remarks about my appearance, my ethnic and religious background, and my provincial life experience. This manager held mandatory work sessions after hours without notice. On one particular evening when I was working on a project, he called me into his office and delivered a two-hour tirade about all the things he thought were wrong with me.

I withstood this withering experience for a long time, until, having spoken very few words, I burst into uncontrollable tears. I left for home after 9:00 p.m. and arrived completely distraught. I knew my continued employment was at risk if I remained subject to the irrationality of this man. Thankfully, I had the support of my husband and the strategy know-how I learned in business school, which helped me devise a plan of action.

I met with our department head and told him that I had experienced an unprovoked and abusive verbal attack by my manager that clearly evidenced his many prejudices against me. I said that I wanted the incident investigated, that I would not work with him alone again, and that I wanted an opportunity to discuss the outcome of the investigation with the CEO.

The investigation was conducted, and I had that meeting with the CEO. The internal investigation found me not responsible for the breakdown in managerial responsibilities, and I was given two choices: accept a severance package and leave or end the matter without further conversation. I determined that it was in my best interest to end the matter and never discussed it again at work. A year later, I was offered a major promotion, and during the next several years, I made continuous progress up the corporate ladder, eventually becoming the first woman appointed to the Senior Management Committee in the history of my company.

I believe to this day that standing up against this behavior, calling on executive leadership to take a support position, making a very tough decision (to end the matter without further conversation), and to continue working very hard, not only saved my career, but also helped me continue to ascend into leadership positions. My definition of success has evolved from my many years of experiences like this: have clear goals and persevere; know that numerous challenges will come your way; know what you truly stand for, and be ready to take challenges on as they come.

The Simmons Marketing Communications Department recently published a two-year review of Strategy 2015. The 16-page booklet features developments related to all five objectives from October 2010-2012.

Marjorie Margolies, former Pennsylvania Congresswoman and Emmy-winning journalist, will visit Simmons College for a full week beginning today (October 22) as part of the distinguished Woodrow Wilson Visiting Fellow program. The founding president of Women's Campaign International – a global advocacy program that empowers women to become effective agents of change – Margolies currently teaches two courses at the Fels Institute of Government at the University of Pennsylvania and is a member of the Vietnamese Education Fund, a Presidential Committee focused in scientific education and exchange between the United States and Vietnam.

In addition to her many accomplishments in journalism and politics, Margolies was the first single white woman to adopt a foreign child, and her son, Marc Mezvinsky, is married to Chelsea Clinton. Margolies caught up with Simmons the week before her arrival on campus to talk about the 2012 Presidential Election and the challenges women face in politics today.

What messages do you want to convey to the Simmons community during your visit?

Fundamentally, I really want them to understand that they should go for it. One of the things I always told my kids is that you can only win if you're not afraid to lose. You have to get out on the playing field. In politics, when women run and lose, they often don't run again. You've got to redefine was resilience is for you. The winning moments and the victories are very important, but it's how you get up after you've been creamed that really counts.

The other thing is: you can do it all, you just can't do it with the same intensity. You have to scale back if you're having a child. You have to figure out what your own bliss is, and you have to get a whole bunch of people around you to support you. You can do it all, you just can't do it all at once.

What is the biggest barrier facing women in politics and leadership positions? How should we be addressing them?

Getting there is the biggest barrier. It's very inconvenient to run, and in many areas, the decision on who runs still comes from those smoky back rooms. It's also hard because of the juggle. Even if you have a supportive husband, you're still the one who holds the family together. No matter how you slice it.

In this presidential election year, what are the biggest issues facing the country?

Jobs are a big issue, as well as trying to figure out how we can spend less and spend more responsibly. I think in this race, women's issues are on the table, period. We've got to respect a woman's right to choose. I think that we, as women, have to be more respected.

What areas of the world is your organization Women's Campaign International targeting?

We have a three-year project in Liberia, we're going to be going into Angola, Afghanistan, and Iraq. A lot of it is post-conflict, because those are the places where women need us most. Sometimes the State Department will come to us and say ‘we need you here,' and sometimes we'll type up an RFP and say ‘we want this.'

"Women Changing Lives: Perspectives on Gender, Politics, & Social Change," begins October 22 and includes a week of inspiring community dialogues led by Woodrow Wilson Fellow Marjorie Margolies and Warburg Chair of International Relations Ambassador William Bellamy. For a full schedule of events, click here.

]]> Former Congresswoman and International Women’s Advocate Marjorie Margolies Visiting Simmons http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/375.php Simmons College President and Leadership News October 18, 2012

Simmons held its first annual Gender, Justice, and Social Entrepreneurship Conference October 11, bringing the College community together to talk about social justice as it relates to gender and the food industry.

The student-led event included several panel discussions and featured keynote addresses by College of Arts and Sciences Dean Renée White and Robin Wiszowaty, author and Kenya Program Director of the international charity Free the Children. White, Wiszowaty, and other speakers shared their experiences related to food justice, and described efforts being taken at Simmons and around the world to jumpstart social change.

"Everyone today needs to know we hold the power of change in ourselves regardless of our age or experience level," said Professor Teresa Nelson, Elizabeth J. McCandless Chair in Entrepreneurship in the School of Management-hyperlink please. "Many, many members of our community are involved at local, national, and global levels as social entrepreneurs – but we don't have the institutional structures to stay connected. The conference moves us one step toward that goal."

The conference drew 500 participants over the course of the day, and cemented the role of higher education in developing solutions to global issues. Professor Nelson and Economics Professor Carole Biewener worked with students, faculty, and the deans to plan for the event, which will take place every year with a different theme.

For Dean White, the conference served as a reminder to re-commit to community-based work on food security.

"During and after the conference I have had the opportunity to speak with faculty, students, and staff about the wealth of information we all have learned, and I know that many have been inspired to continue the examination of gender and social justice," said Dean White. "One student said to me, ‘At first, I didn't get the connection between food and gender, but now I do. Food is a political issue.' I think that sums it up in a nutshell."

Photo caption: Conference organizers from left to right: Kelsey Truman, Carla Gomes, Teresa Nelson, Carole Biewener, Allison Whittier, Aisha Shillingford, and Amy Thornton.

To read Professor Teresa Nelson's blog about the conference, click here.

The Japanese Women's Leadership Initiative (JWLI) Fellows Program wrapped up its sixth year of programming at the Simmons College School of Management in September. The goal of the program is to help Japanese women move from traditional roles and become leaders of social change in their home country.

Each year, four Japanese women are selected from a pool of applicants in Japan for participation. The program aims to teach the Fellows about the important role of nonprofit organizations in American society, while helping them learn about themselves as women leaders and advocates for social change in Japanese society.

The women receive hands-on training from executives at leading Boston-based nonprofits, such as Ellis Memorial and the Women's Lunch Place. They attend tutorials and classroom lectures at the School of Management, and develop action plans for implementation upon their return to Japan.

The JWLI Program is funded by the Fish Family Foundation through Simmons College Trustee Atsuko Toko Fish and her husband, Lawrence Fish. Fish decided to fund the program with the hope that Japanese women could learn the American model of nonprofit organizations and bring that knowledge back to their home country of Japan.

"Women in Japan are still largely subservient to men, particularly in the business sector. We're helping women step forward as leaders," said Fish. "I hear glass ceilings – and walls – breaking in Japan, and it's making a loud noise."

SOM Dean Cathy Minehan is also pleased with the program and its inherent connection to Simmons.

"Our partnership is mission driven," she said. "Atsuko shares our commitment to women and principled leadership and is 100 percent focused on the success of the JWLI program."

Photo Caption: 2012 Japanese Fellows Kiyono Sakakibara, Rika Tanioka, Noelle Takahashi, and Shima Fumimoto at Simmons. ]]> Simmons Helps to Develop Japanese Women Leaders http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/373.php Simmons College President and Leadership News October 2, 2012

Photo Caption: Simmons College President Helen Drinan and Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts CEO Ruth Bramson

Simmons College President Helen Drinan and Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts (GSEM) CEO Ruth Bramson met earlier this week to discuss the upcoming Nov. 8 conference "Dreaming Big – What's Gender Got to do with it?" The conference will be held at Simmons and will discuss the findings of a recent survey commissioned by Simmons and GSEM that looks at career aspirations of middle school students and the impact of girl-serving organizations. The full study will be released Oct. 22 by the Simmons College Center for Gender in Organizations. Conference speakers will include Rachel Simmons of the Girls Leadership Institute; Connie Chow of the Science Club for Girls; and Mia Roberts of the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston.

Click here to learn more about the conference and register.

]]> Helping Girls Achieve Successful Careers http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/372.php Simmons College President and Leadership News September 20, 2012

The tragic deaths of the U.S. Ambassador to Libya and three other Americans, who were killed in the uproar over a film that insulted the Prophet Mohammad, highlight the dangers faced by many diplomats overseas. Between 2003 and 2006, Simmons Warburg Chair for International Relations Mark Bellamy served as U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, where a bomb destroyed the U.S. Embassy in 1998, and killed more than 200 people. Below Ambassador Bellamy discusses the perils faced by Foreign Service representatives, and the vital role they play building bridges and finding common ground among nations.

What was your first reaction to the murder of Christopher Stevens, the U.S. Ambassador to Libya?
It was shock. I flashed back to a time 30 years ago when I was a very junior diplomat and heard that our Ambassador in Kabul had been killed. That was the last time - back in 1979 - that one of our ambassadors was killed. It's a terrible thing. Foreign service officers and state department personnel work in difficult and dangerous environments, and we accept that; but when something like this happens it's still a great shock.

When you first became a diplomat, did you understand the dangers involved in the job?
It is a dangerous profession simply because the main goal of a U.S. diplomatic representative, a consulate, and an embassy, is to represent the United States around the world, including in countries where we have troubled relations, even sometimes in war zones.

Diplomats are on the front lines around the world. The nature of the diplomat's work is to communicate, to negotiate, and to promote understanding; and to understand misunderstandings and miscalculations. That work is performed in difficult places, and diplomats are not armed.

How do U.S. Ambassadors generally interact with the people in the countries they serve?
Ambassadors are the President's personal envoy to the head of state (in a host country). This person must be the contact with that government and communicate and identify possible areas of misunderstanding; and convey views of the United States, engage with opposing political parties, the media, the business sector, and the academic community. Beyond that, the ambassador reaches out broadly to the population of the host country.

How important is the role of U.S. diplomats in foreign countries?
Diplomats play an important role in helping us understand what is happening in these countries. We should not think that because we have the Internet and telephones that we know what's going on around the world. You have to have people on the ground. It's vital to have a physical presence with someone who speaks the language, knows the culture, and interacts with these governments and reports back.
There is no real substitute for that kind of presence abroad. Our President and government depend on good representation, and information to help them know what to do.

By and large, there is a great deal of appreciation and demand to having an American embassy and an American presence in foreign countries.

What can we learn from this tragic incident?
There will be many. But one thing we have to understand is that ambassadors and diplomats run many risks in the world. Ultimately, we need to do what we can to minimize those risks to make sure that we have as many safety precautions in place as possible. That said, there is no way to secure any embassy against a concerted effort by a mob; you have to rely on the host government to protect it.

Simmons's annual Convocation ceremony to open the beginning of academic year 2012-2013 was held September 5 with a faculty procession and all-college ceremony, featuring an address by Center for Excellence in Teaching Interim Director Barbara Walvoord. In her remarks, Dr. Walvoord credited faculty with playing a crucial role in the launch of the Center. "I direct the new Center for Excellence in Teaching, but it is not my project. It's a project for all of us," she said.

At the afternoon undergraduate ceremony, members of the Class of 2013 donned their caps and gowns for the first time, and listened to a speech by Senior Class President Shannon Mary Curran. Twenty-four senior Academy members were recognized for their academic performance, and awards were distributed to faculty members for excellence in advising, teaching, and research (see full list below).

Former Ambassador and newly appointed Warburg Chair of International Relations Mark Bellamy delivered the afternoon address, entitled "Without Fear," which encouraged students to take advantage of their privileged position as students in America. "We are privileged, all of us, to be part of this community," he said, "and with privilege comes responsibility."

The 2012 Convocation was dedicated to Provost Charlena Seymour, who is retiring at the end of this academic year and was instrumental in bringing the annual event to Simmons. In her introductory speech, Provost Seymour listed the many accomplishments of the College over the past year, many related to Strategy 2015. "All of these achievements are not a dream, but a reality for Simmons today," she said.

To view the Simmons Convocation video, click here.  

The following faculty/staff members were recognized at Convocation:

Recognition of Tenure and Promotion to Associate Professor

Former U.S. Ambassador to Kenya and career diplomat William M. Bellamy is set to begin his tenure as the new Warburg Chair in International Relations with an opening school year address at the 2012 Simmons Convocation ceremony, today.

Considered an expert in Africa, specifically politics, economy, security, development, and foreign relations, as well as U.S. Foreign and Defense Policy, Ambassador Bellamy has much to share with the Simmons community. Simmons alumna and Emerita Trustee Joan Warburg '45, '97HD created the Warburg chair to educate the College about international affairs. We spoke to Ambassador Bellamy about his career overseas and beyond. Here's what he had to say:

Simmons: Most recently, you served as director of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies in Washington, D.C. Tell us about your areas of expertise.
Bellamy: I consider my areas of expertise to be international relations, generally; Africa, in all respects; U.S. Foreign and Defense Policy in general; and the workings of the U.S. inter-agency process, especially the links between diplomacy, defense, and development. I also am pretty good on development-related issues, and I have a special interest and some expertise in France.

Simmons: Do you have any interesting hobbies?
Bellamy: Aside from family and friends, my interests outside of work include literature, cinema, theatre, travel, running, hiking, game tracking, birdwatching, shooting, golf, and the appreciation of baseball.

Simmons: What is coming up in the news that you want to explore?
Bellamy: The trends in Africa I will be talking about in coming months include: difficult elections in Kenya and Zimbabwe, the growing terrorist threat in Mali and the Sahel, the situation in Somalia, and political developments in South Africa. I expect to talk about African events and policies in the wake of the U.S. elections as well.

Simmons: What is your favorite place in the world to visit?
Bellamy: Every year I try to re-visit Paris and a part of rural France that I have not yet discovered. I also try to visit a part of Africa that I don't know…. My favorite place in the world to visit right now, this minute, would probably be a rock ledge high in the Chyulu Hills at sunrise looking south to Kilimanjaro. My ambition for 2013 is to visit Morocco.

Simmons: Is there anything specific that you try to impress upon young people (Americans) when you describe your experiences overseas?
Bellamy: Young Americans should know that we learn a great deal about ourselves when we travel, observe, and listen to other cultures.
 
Ambassador Bellamy is the recipient of a Presidential Meritorious Service Award, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Distinguished Civilian Service Award, a Distinguished Honor Award, and two Superior Honor Awards conferred by the Secretary of State. He holds a B.A. in history from Occidental College and an M.A. in international relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He is a native of La Jolla, CA.
]]> Simmons Welcomes New Warburg Chair in International Relations http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/368.php Simmons College President and Leadership News September 4, 2012

Photo Caption: College of Arts and Sciences Dean Renée White with Gender and Cultural Studies graduate student Katherine Phelps in Washington, D.C.

Simmons recently became a National Ally of Vision 2020, a national initiative for women's economic and social equality that works with affiliated organizations to advance issues of importance to women.

In spring 2012, College of Arts and Sciences Dean Renée White, and Gender and Cultural Studies graduate student Katherine Phelps, attended a Vision 2020 White House briefing on Women's Issues. They worked with Vision 2020 during the summer to develop a handbook for establishing clubs on college campuses and will advise the organization as they launch college chapters in the coming year. In November, Dean White and Phelps plan to attend the 3rd Annual Vision 2020 National Congress in Portland, Oregon.

In becoming a National Ally of Vision 2020, Simmons joins other notable organizations including the American Association of University Women, the Black Women's Health Imperative, the Wellesley Centers for Women, and Girl Scouts USA. Simmons has also been asked to start one of Vision 2020's first college student chapters.

For the eighth consecutive year, Simmons College was named one of the top colleges in the nation by The Princeton Review in its  "Best 377 Colleges" 2013 edition guidebook. Only 15 percent of America's 2,500 four-year and three-year colleges are featured in the book.

The rankings are based on surveys of more 122,000 students (with an average of 325 per campus) during the 2011-2012 academic year. The 80-question survey asked students about their school's academics, administration, campus life, student body, and themselves.

Describing Simmons's undergraduate women's college, the guide said the College equips students with the "tools and confidence to succeed in the real world." Of the professors, a student said they "do everything in their power to help us get an internship, to learn, to interact with the material, and to prepare us for life after college." A chemistry major noted that the College provided her with many valuable research opportunities and connections. "I have been able to do scientific research every semester since my first year at Simmons," the student said.

The guide also said: "Simmons succeeds at giving students power to make decisions in the school, including policy, academics, administration, [and] events." Also, that the College "takes advantage of its Boston location through class trips, job placement, and internship opportunities."

Princeton Review's print guide features a detailed profile of Simmons and other colleges with ratings in eight categories, including Academics, Admissions Selectivity, and Green commitment. The Princeton Review tallies are based on institutional data collected from the schools during the 2011-2012 academic year and/or its student survey for the book. The ratings are scored on a scale of 60 to 99 and they appear in each school profile.

Simmons College (www.simmons.edu) is a nationally ranked university located in the heart of Boston with a history of visionary thinking and social responsibility. It offers undergraduate education for women, and renowned coeducational graduate programs in nursing and health sciences, education, liberal arts, library and information science, social work, as well as the nation's first MBA program designed specifically for women. Follow Simmons on Twitter @SimmonsCollege and @SimmonsNews.


]]> Princeton Review Names Simmons College Among America's "Best 377 Colleges" for 2013 http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/366.php Simmons College President and Leadership News August 21, 2012

From left to right: Alexandra Fuller, Sarah Gallagher, Jennie Holloway, Carolyn Grimes, and Jessica Baylor.

After nine weeks of immersion in select Boston area non-profits, three Simmons College students who took part in the 2012 Scott/Ross Fellowship team shared their findings with Simmons professors and members of the local non-profit community.

The Scott/Ross Fellowship in Non-profit Management was first offered at Simmons in 2011 and was established by Simmons College Trustee Emily Scott Pottruck '78 for students with distinguished records of community service to pursue their interest and further expand their knowledge in philanthropy, grant making, and non-profit programming and management challenges. The fellowship is based on the Pottruck Family Foundation Internship offered to Simmons students from 2001-2008 in San Francisco.

Founded in 2000, the Scott/Ross Center for Community Service facilitates and promotes community service and service-learning for Simmons College students, faculty, and staff in Greater Boston and beyond. By developing reciprocal partnerships with community-based organizations, the Scott/Ross Center enriches and expands students' educational and co-curricular experiences.

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick signed legislation in August authorizing the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to enter into a lease with the Friends of Daly Field, comprised of representatives from Simmons College, Brighton High School, Brighton, and the surrounding communities.

Simmons College seeks to enter into the lease in order to upgrade and revitalize the six-acre athletic complex located along the Charles River in Brighton, and to use the fields for shared use among Simmons College, Brighton High School, Brighton youth sports, and the general public. Simmons will fund the renovation and maintenance of the playing fields, in return for shared use.

Led by the Allston-Brighton delegation including Senator Will Brownsberger, Representative Michael Moran, Representative Kevin Honan, and Boston City Councilor Mark Ciommo, the bill aims to revitalize the existing playing fields, which are in poor condition and have been underutilized for many years.

Simmons entered into this unique public-private partnership because it has been looking for new athletic fields for its athletics programs. More than a year ago, community and business activists informed Simmons officials of the Allston-Brighton community's desire to renovate Daly Field for their use, as well as for high school athletics. Simmons saw the opportunity to create a public-private partnership as a clear benefit to the public, the Allston-Brighton and surrounding communities, and the College. This partnership will provide revitalized playing fields for all.

"At a time when private institutions are being asked to provide more financial support because of limited public budgets, we believe that this partnership offers a strong alternative," said Simmons President Helen Drinan.

Simmons has spent more than a year working in collaboration and talking with community, legislative, and school leaders. Drinan said she looks forward to the continued public process that lies ahead including community meetings and environmental reviews. With the recent signing of this bill, local legislators, Simmons College, and the Friends of Daly Field, will enter a new phase of collaborative discussions with the community, public officials, local organizations, and the DCR regarding next steps to revitalize Daly Field.

To read more about the project, including a FAQ, please click here.
]]> Governor Signs Legislation on Athletic Field Renovation in Brighton http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/363.php Simmons College President and Leadership News August 8, 2012

Simmons School of Management (SOM) recently became a University Partner of the National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA). As a partner, Simmons will be listed on the NSHMBA website and participate in their annual conference. Simmons will also promote scholarship opportunities to qualified Hispanic applicants through the NSHMBA.

This partnership with NSHMBA is the most recent strategic partnership for the SOM. Other partners include the National Black MBA Association, the National Association of Women Business Owners, and the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association. A full list of partners can be found here.

NSHMBA is the premier Hispanic business organization dedicated to building and advancing Hispanic leadership through graduate management education and professional development. The organization aims to increase the number of Hispanic students completing master's business degree programs and is recognized as the nation's most prestigious Hispanic business organization, with 37 chapters in the U.S. and Puerto Rico serving nearly 16,000 members.
]]> SOM Partners with Hispanic MBA Society http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/361.php Simmons College President and Leadership News August 2, 2012

Cathy Minehan, dean of Simmons School of Management, appeared in the Business Schools section of the Wall Street Journal, August 2, 2012. In the story (see below), Minehan explains what brought her to the academic world after spending nearly 40 years working at the Federal Reserve Bank system in New York and Boston. She also shares why she thinks it's better to address workplace gender issues in an all-women's environment when so much of the business world is dominated by men: "[At Simmons, students] can develop tools to navigate better in the business world because they understand the subtleties of a male-dominated culture in a way that they might not understand in classrooms that are dominated by men."

The original article can be found on WSJ.com

For the fourth year in a row, members of the Boston after school program GRLZ Radio were invited to Simmons College for a campus tour and some valuable on-air coaching from Simmons Radio Director Len Mailloux.

Thirty high school girls ages 14-18 had lunch with a College admissions director before meeting up with Mailloux in the College's state-of-the-art radio studio. Mailloux, a thirty-year veteran of radio news, spoke with the girls about their on-air presence and emphasized the importance of writing skills. He also invited the students to attend an intercollegiate broadcasting conference at Simmons in October.

The visit was arranged by Diane Hammer, Director of the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change (SILC). Since 1991, SILC has been reaching out to community organizations and fostering relationships with individuals and groups that share the vision and values of Simmons. The institute sponsors various activities including workshops, movies, conferences, and programs.

SILC  has a longstanding partnership with GRLZ Radio, an after school program that gives teenage girls an opportunity to gain technical skills in radio while also speaking out on issues that are important to them. GRLZ Radio shows are broadcast worldwide on the Internet at GRLZRadio.org.

"I am really proud of our relationship with this organization," Hammer said of GRLZ Radio. "At Simmons, we talk about raising girls' voices, and that's literally what they're doing over at GRLZ Radio. The fact that we can contribute advice and technical expertise to their radio station is icing on the cake for me."

Students in the graduate Communications Management program recently unveiled the new Management Magazine, which will be published semi-annually and distributed to prospective students and alumnae/i under the direction of MCM Program Director Richard Cravatts.

The first edition includes interviews with School of Management professors like Teresa Nelson and women business leaders such as Eileen Fisher. Other articles provide insight into corporate social responsibility, gender and leadership, and the burgeoning health care industry.

"The students who produced Management Magazine have demonstrated exactly what the program strives to teach in a tactical, hands-on way," Cravatts said.

Management Magazine is the second student-produced magazine at Simmons. For the past six years, undergraduate Communications students have produced the annual magazine Commtracks as part of the Studio 5 program. The 2012 edition focused on the evolution of the Communications Department and featured faculty profiles and a timeline of department milestones.
]]> Students Unveil New Management Magazine http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/313.php Simmons College President and Leadership News

Photo Caption: Recent Simmons graduate Maria Costigan with U.S. Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz

The goal of the Simmons Success Connection Program is to offer students valuable insights into professional leadership opportunities, and to provide meaningful experiences for accomplished alumnae/i mentors. And that is exactly what recent alumna Maria Costigan '12 experienced.

In April, Costigan traveled to Washington, D.C., to visit Pennsylvania Congresswomen Allyson Schwartz '70, '08HD. During her Success Connection experience, Costigan sat in on a Budget Committee hearing, attended a constituent meeting, and stopped by the Democratic National Committee headquarters. For Costigan, who recently began working as Deputy Finance Director for Massachusetts Congressman John Tierney's campaign, the experience was exhilarating and reaffirming.

"The ability to sit in on the hearing was the most real that politics and policy has ever felt to me," Costigan said. "It gave me a perspective of what it looks like to work in Washington, and I could see myself there."

What makes the Success Connection program so special is the opportunity it provides to highlight the strong bond created at women's colleges. The Success Connection was formed in 1995 by the Simmons Leadership Council to help advance the career and professional development of Simmons students. Success Connection mentors include accomplished leaders in a variety of industries who provide students with real-life professional experiences. Each year, approximately 25 students are chosen and matched with Success Connection alumnae/i for a one-day job shadowing opportunity.

"My Success Connection experience opened my eyes to what is possible," said Emily Carallozzi '07, whose alumna mentor was Olivia Cohen-Cutler '75, Senior Vice-President of Broadcasting Standards and Practices for ABC News.

Simmons College has joined the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) as an associate member in the sport of women's rowing, and will compete in the NEWMAC championship in 2013, the league announced.

As the seventh women's crew program in the conference, which includes teams from Wellesley, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, Clark University, WPI, and the United States Coast Guard Academy, NEWMAC will now be eligible to receive an automatic qualification to the NCAA Division III Championship.

"This membership provides Simmons student-athletes the opportunity to compete against some of the finest NCAA Division III women's rowing programs in the country," said Simmons Athletics Director Ali Kantor. "I am excited to see Simmons rowers provided this outstanding experience and we are honored to be a member of the NEWMAC."

At one point during their 2012 season, the Sharks were ranked No. 10 in the nation in the Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association/USRowing Division III poll. Eight varsity rowers were also named Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association (CRCA) Scholar Athletes in 2012.

NEWMAC President and Mount Holyoke Athletic Director, Laurie Priest, welcomed Simmons to the conference.

"We are delighted to have Simmons College join our ranks as an associate member for the sport of women's rowing," she said. "Most of our NEWMAC women's programs compete against Simmons on a regular basis and adding them to the conference strengthens the opportunities available for all of our student-athletes."

This year's NEWMAC championship will be held on April 20 at Lake Quinsigamond in Worcester, Mass. Wellesley College remains the defending league champion after capturing its second straight league title in 2012.
]]> Simmons Crew Team Joins NEWMAC Conference http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/308.php Simmons College President and Leadership News July 18, 2012

An op-ed by Simmons School of Management Dean Cathy Minehan appeared on The Podium section of Boston.com on June 29, 2012. In the op-ed, which is pasted below, Minehan addresses the recent controversial question of whether women can "have it all."

The original article can be found on Boston.com.

Twenty undergraduate women from five African countries are currently at Simmons attending a "Study of the United States Institute on Women's Leadership," as part of a broader U.S. Department of State initiative designed to promote a better understanding of the United States abroad and to help develop future world leaders.

The African students, along with 10 Simmons students, are currently participating in a five-week program, "Women Changing the Face of Leadership." The program is designed to develop their leadership skills and enhance their understanding of United States history, government, and society with a particular focus on women's leadership.

The Department of State is supplying the grant under the Fulbright-Hays Act "to foster mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries." The students arrived on campus in mid-June and will depart on July 21.

As part of the program, the 20 young women are touring the rich historical and cultural sites of Massachusetts, and participating in an educational tour in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., where they will visit historic sites of the U.S. Civil Rights Movement.

Simmons faculty in Africana Studies, history, political science, and management, joined by elected and appointed officials, will focus on critical thinking, communication, decision-making, and managerial skills in the context of the history and reality of women in U.S. politics, economics, culture, and society.

"We could not be more pleased to host these international students," said Simmons Provost Charlena Seymour. "The role of women as leaders today, here in the United States as well as across Africa, could not be more important."
]]> African Students Visit Simmons for Women’s Leadership Program http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/305.php Simmons College President and Leadership News July 6, 2012

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino (pictured above with President Helen Drinan) stopped by the Simmons campus on June 26 during a three-day Educator Evaluation Training put on by Boston Public Schools. Superintendent Carol Johnson was also in attendance.
]]> Mayor Menino Visits Simmons http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/295.php Simmons College President and Leadership News

Photo Caption: Simmons School of Management Dean Cathy Minehan makes opening remarks at the 2012 TOYL Awards Ceremony.

Simmons College was the lead sponsor for the 2012 "Ten Outstanding Young Leaders" (TOYL) awards presented by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. Simmons School of Management Dean Cathy Minehan provided opening remarks to the audience, talking about Simmons's long history and commitment to women's leadership.

The event was held June 21 at the Westin Waterfront Hotel and recognized 10 outstanding young leaders who are working to make Boston, and the region, a better place to live and work. Since its inception in 1952, the TOYL award ceremony has honored more than 500 young leaders, including President John F. Kennedy.
The event emcee was WCVB-TV Reporter Kelley Tuthill. The 2012 honorees included:

• Kate Cook, director of policy and cabinet affairs, Office of the Governor
• Thomas Crohan, assistant vice president, John Hancock Financial
• Richard A. Davey, Jr., secretary and CEO, MassDOT
• Eric Ding, PhD, faculty, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital
• Alice Jacobs, MD, chairman, CEO, and founder, Intelligent MDx
• Piper McNealy, partner, Boston Benefit Partners, LLC
• Michael P. Ross, city councilor, Boston, and of counsel, Prince Lobel and Tye LLP
• Greg Shell, portfolio manager, GMO, LLC
• Kim Steimle, CMO and CPO, Suffolk Construction Company
• Mitch Weiss, chief of staff, City of Boston Mayor's Office

]]> Simmons Supports Young Leaders http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/294.php Simmons College President and Leadership News June 12, 2012

Photo Caption: Sylvia Ferrell-Jones, YWCA Boston President and CEO; SOM Dean Cathy Minehan; Kathy Murphy, Co-Chair, YWCA Boston Board of Directors.

Simmons School of Management Dean Cathy Minehan delivered two keynote speeches at women's leadership events this spring, shining light on the challenges facing women leaders today and the steps that need to be taken to empower women for success.

"We are pleased to have Cathy serve as our keynote speaker. She is a true inspiration, living proof that no dream is too large, and no job unattainable," said Sylvia Ferrell-Jones, President and CEO of YWCA Boston.

• Deborah Barnard, Partner, Holland & Knight
• Yvonne Garcia, Director of Segment Marketing, Liberty Mutual Group
• Crystal Johnson, Founder and Principal, Integrative Sustainability & Environment Solutions (ISES)
• Mary Mazzio, Founder and CEO, 50 EGGS, Inc.
• Jean Russell, Founder and President, BenefitsMart

Photo: Simmons President Helen Drinan, Mount Holyoke College President Lynn Pasquerella, UMass Dartmouth Chancellor Jean MacCormack, and Susan Duffy, executive director of the Center for Women's Leadership at Babson College.

President Helen Drinan was the moderator for the recent "Women in Higher Education" panel hosted by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Women's Network. The event, held May 10 at the Ritz-Carlton in Boston, included panelists Susan Duffy, executive director of the Center for Women's Leadership at Babson College; Chancellor Jean MacCormack of UMass Dartmouth; and Lynn Pasquerella, president of Mount Holyoke College.

"We in higher education are responsible for preparing women for success," said Drinan. The panel discussed a variety of topics including women in business and entrepreneurship, encouraging women to take risks, and women helping women succeed. "Talking about risk and failure is helpful to young women," said Drinan, who went on to explain that if students are exposed to the fact that risk and failure are normal parts of leadership, they are more likely to feel comfortable in this arena.

For more about this panel, including photos, see the Boston Chamber blog.

Photo: Simmons College President Helen Drinan, right, meeting with Gwen Ifill

President Helen Drinan met with Simmons College alumna and Washington Week moderator Gwen Ifill April 25 in Washington, D.C. Drinan was in Washington as part of a year-long road show across the United States to promote the Making Education Work Campaign.

Ifill, who is a 1977 graduate of Simmons, was the Commencement speaker in 2009 and is currently managing editor and moderator of Washington Week, as well as senior correspondent for the PBS NewsHour. Ifill was recently featured in the SIMMONS magazine discussing how her Simmons education affected her career.

President Drinan was invited to UMASS Medical School in Worcester, Mass., April 3 to deliver a keynote address in honor of Women's History Month. During the presentation, President Drinan discussed the importance of women supporting other women in the workplace, and about how women should not be deterred by failure.

A blog about her presentation, " Key to Success is Determining What You Really Want – Simmons College President Shares Her Own History at Women's History Month Event"  also was posted on the UMASS website.

Photo Caption: President Drinan speaking with Elaine Martin, Director of Library Services and Director National Network of Libraries of Medicine, New England Region, UMASS Medical.
Photo by Tim Dailey
]]> Women Supporting Other Women http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/289.php Simmons College President and Leadership News

Photo L-R: COF Executive Director Claire Ramsbottom, MCPHS President Charles F. Monahan, Simmons College President Helen Drinan; Wentworth Institute of Technology President Zorica Pantic; and Wheelock College President Jackie Jenkins-Scott.

The Colleges of the Fenway consortium celebrated its 15-year anniversary last week with a special luncheon recognizing all six of the participating colleges: Simmons College, Emmanuel College, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Wentworth Institute of Technology, and Wheelock College. Created in 2003, the consortium has created numerous projects and events, and initiated shared resources such as cross registration and the Fenway Card payment system, all of which benefit students, faculty and staff.

During the event, Simmons College Assistant Registrar Sharon Roberts and Associate Professor of Chemistry Michael Berger were honored with Collaboration Awards.
]]> 15 Years for Colleges of the Fenway http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/288.php Simmons College President and Leadership News

Photo L-R: Dean Renee White, Professor Janie Ward, Simmons President Helen Drinan, Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts CEO Ruth Bramson, Simmons Provost Charlena Seymour, SimmonsVP of Marketing Cheryl Howard

In celebration of the Girl Scouts 100th anniversary, several members of the Simmons College community attended a gala event March 29 at the Fairmont Copley Plaza. More than 600 people attended the special dinner, which included a fashion show of scouting uniforms over the years, and a talk by Chelsea Clinton. The Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts is an important partner to Simmons, because of our aligned interest in the education of girls and women.

On March 13, Simmons College hosted a special event "What Does it Take to be Black, Female, and Healthy in America?" Sponsored by The Black Women's Health Imperative, the only organization devoted to advancing the health and wellness of America's black women and girls, the event also included a panel discussion about black women's health.

Photo Caption from left: Simmons College Arts and Sciences Dean Renee T. White; Simmons College School of Nursing and Health Sciences Dean Judy Beal; Founder of the Black Women's Health Imperative Byllye Avery; Dr. Paula Johnson of Brigham and Women's Hospital; Cassandra Clay of Boston University; and Eleanor Hinton-Hoytt of the Black Women's Health Imperative.
]]> Simmons Hosts Black Women's Health Event http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/286.php Simmons College President and Leadership News

A group of 29 Fulbright Scholars convened at Simmons in March as part of a prestigious Fulbright grant organized by the Office of the Provost. The three-day 2012 Fulbright Leadership and Re-entry Seminar for Women from Latin America include a series of interactive workshops and activities at Simmons, tours of Boston, and a panel discussion with Boston women leaders.

Simmons faculty and staff involved wit the grant included: Professor and Director of the Center for Gender in Organizations Patricia Deyton, Director of Executive Education Elisa van Dam, Study Abroad Program Manager Laura Bey, School of Social Work Dean Stefan Krug, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Renée T. White, and School of Management Dean Cathy Minehan.

For more information, visit Fulbright.state.gov.
]]> Fulbright Scholars Convene at Simmons http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/285.php Simmons College President and Leadership News March 2, 2012

The op-ed below "Women's Colleges Tap Underutilized Leadership Talent" written by President Helen Drinan appeared on Boston.com, Feb. 28, 2012.  

By Helen Drinan

In a few short months, thousands of newly minted college graduates will leave Boston with dreams of future success. According to the U.S. Census, more than half of these students will be women; and according to the consulting firm McKinsey & Co, if we check back with these women in several years, they will not have attained the same level of success as their male counterparts.

Research by McKinsey and the women's advocacy group Catalyst shows that women account for more than half of entry-level professionals in the largest American industrial corporations, but only 14 percent are on executive committees. Women represent just 3 percent of Fortune500 CEOs, and less than 15 percent of corporate executives at top companies worldwide. The sad truth is that only minimal progress has been made in the past few decades for women to make a significant break-through into leadership positions.

The reasons for this disparity are multifaceted, yet one of the strongest answers to this problem, I believe, can be found at some of America's most enduring institutions: women's colleges. As a graduate and president of a women's college, I have no doubt that these educational outlets continue to play a vital role in educating and preparing women for leadership positions, helping our nation tap into an enormous segment of underutilized talent.

At women's colleges, women are the ones receiving their university's top prizes, prestigious graduate fellowships, or holding major campus-wide leadership roles. This experience rang true for Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, a Wellesley graduate, who said her all-female college experience "guaranteed a focus on academic achievement and extracurricular leadership we might have missed at a coed college...Women not only ran all the student activities – from student government to newspaper to clubs – but we also felt freer to take risks, make mistakes and even fail in front of one another."

In contrast, a recent study at an Ivy League college revealed that at 10 of the most prestigious co-educational institutions, women undergraduates were less likely to receive the university's top prizes, prestigious graduate fellowships, or hold major campus-wide leadership roles, despite the fact that they outperformed their male counterparts in all academic achievement.

Not only do women's colleges provide more opportunities, but they also provide students with strong female role models, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by men such as science, engineering, and mathematics. (At women's colleges, the majority of the presidents are women, and more than half of the faculty members are women.)

Among the more profound advantages of women's colleges is that they encourage women to take risks during the course of their careers, without fear of failure. That failure can be a necessary part of the path to leadership. This is a liberating and revolutionary way to make life choices, and one women's colleges have been promoting for years.

The success of women's college graduates compels us to persevere and share with the world what we know about the power of women's colleges in producing leaders like Clinton (Wellesley), Kathleen Sebelius, U.S.
Secretary of Health and Human Services (Trinity Washington University), Pulitzer Prize winning author and playwright Suzan Lori-Parks (Mount Holyoke College) and national broadcast journalist Gwen Ifill (Simmons College).

Certainly, a woman's college isn't for everyone; single-gender education has many detractors. A recent study by the journal Science magazine declared sex-segregation to be "misguided," asserting there was no empirical evidence that boys and girls learn differently. Others will debate that unless you learn in a coed environment, you are unprepared to work with the opposite sex.

But why is it, that in spite of the fact that women now have access to the same institutions of higher learning as men, and outperform them in both academic achievement and completion rates, that this success is not translating into equal achievement in their careers?
Clearly something is not working. Women's colleges have been educating women for leadership and achievement for years, and that work is needed more now than ever. If you influence a girl or woman in your life who aspires to leadership opportunities, do her a favor and suggest she attend a women's college. Chances are, she will thank you later from a position of success.

Helen Drinan is president of Simmons College.

Photo Caption: Simmons President Helen Drinan (above right) was one of eight women to receive a Pinnacle Award from the Boston Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 26. Read more about the 2012 winners here.

The following opinion piece by President Helen Drinan appeared in the Feb. 3 print edition of the Boston Business Journal. It also appeared on the Boston Business Journal website.

Women Leaders Need to Risk Failure in Order to Succeed

This past week, I was honored to receive a 2012 Pinnacle Award from the Boston Chamber of Commerce. I was one of eight women in the Boston area recognized for achievement in industries such as media, healthcare, energy, business, and education.

I was blessed to have with me colleagues from Simmons College, friends, and family including my daughter, and 12-year-old granddaughter. As I sat waiting for my name to be called, I wondered what my young granddaughter was thinking. Here she was, surrounded by hundreds of successful women talking about leadership. Would she have the same opportunities as these women? Will she have more? Will she attempt to do something out of her comfort zone? And will she be supported in these attempts by women mentors and peers? I certainly hope so because in order to move our nation forward and meet the many challenges before us, it's crucial that women – half of our workforce population – realize their full potential.

Many of the women who were honored with me at the Pinnacle Awards talked about their experiences with risk during the course of their careers. And I too shared my story of risk, and failure, and lessons learned.
When I returned from the Peace Corps in the early 70s, I was enthusiastic about pursuing a career as a foreign service officer. This position required a written exam, given only once a year, followed by an oral exam. For three years I followed the process, and I failed.

The first year, I failed the written exam. The second year, I passed the written exam, got myself all dressed up for the oral, and failed it. Same thing the third year. I remember being totally deflated and — in a moment of painful clarity — I realized I was not destined to be part of the foreign service. Ironically, roughly 25 years after I had applied and been denied to the foreign service, I was asked to be the named plaintiff in a class action suit against the State Department for employment discrimination against women. I certainly felt a sense of justice, but it never erased my speculation about what might have been.

Did I "give up on my dreams"? Some may say yes, but I think the hallmark of a good leader is someone who realizes that within failure lies new opportunities and new dreams.

Every leader – man or woman – has experienced failure in some fashion and has learned from that. Leaders understand that when life moves you in a different direction, you must respond. Women need to understand and be comfortable with the fact that failure is not the end, it is simply part of the path to leadership.

Photo Caption: Sociology Professor Stephen London; Simmons President Helen Drinan; Rita Shah, Neha Shah; Jennifer Nodelman, Vice President of Education Finance, Citizens Bank; and Rick Musiol, Senior Vice President, Director of Public Affairs, Citizens Bank.

Dix Scholar Rita Shah was recently awarded a $1,500 scholarship by Citizens Bank for her work with domestic violence victims and Indian senior citizens.

On Jan. 17 Citizens Bank representatives visited Simmons to present Shah with a check. The scholarship can be applied toward her final semester of college – Shah is on track to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in social justice in May.

The TruFit Good Citizens Scholarship program was established in 2011 to reward students for giving back to their communities. Shah was one of just 20 students to receive the scholarship out of nearly 1,800 applicants. She and the other winners were chosen for their "incredible dedication to the quality of life of others," said Brendan Coughlin, President of Education Finance, Citizens Financial Group.

"We commend them for the impact they have had as volunteers," Coughlin added.

Shah, who commutes to Simmons from Burlington, Mass., works part-time for the Council on Aging helping Indian senior citizens. One of her programs, which began two years ago with a handful of participants, now attracts upwards of 40 seniors.

She has also done extensive work for the South Asian Women's Network (SAHELI) helping domestic violence victims. She said giving back was instilled in her at a young age.

"I was always taught by my parents to do something good for others," she said. "Life is too short."

Though she'll be graduating in May, her Simmons experience has motivated Shah to continue her education through a master's or doctoral program. Her youngest daughter, Neha, is currently a sophomore at Simmons studying physical therapy.

"The professors and students really accepted me as one of them," Shah said. "It's been such a great journey."
]]> Student Wins Scholarship for Community Service http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/56.php Simmons College President and Leadership News

Photo Caption: President Drinan (front, center) poses with the Simmons sophomores who took part in Simmons's second World Challenge.

Most students have the opportunity to sit back and relax during the winter break, enjoying the time away from their studies. Not so for nine groups of Simmons sophomores who took part in Simmons's second World Challenge.

These students used the semester break to delve deeply into the problem of world hunger. Assisted by Simmons professors, the students studied the problem and collaborated to create several final projects, including a video that highlights the problem of poverty in Boston.

Photo Caption: Guests at the GSLIS Blue Ribbon Panel included GSLIS Professor Peter Hernon, GSLIS Dean Michele Cloonan, Provost Charlena Seymour, and Simmons Trustee Winston Tabb.

In January Simmons brought in a group of 17 professionals to meet with faculty and staff of the Graduate School of Library and Information Science. This Blue Ribbon Panel of esteemed professionals in the higher education and LIS fields included academics from Harvard University, MIT, Brown University and Syracuse University, as well as professionals representing a variety of fields including social media and architecture.

Provost Charlena Seymour also took part in the program, which is related to Simmons's Strategy 2015 goal of creating opportunities to enhance the national reach and visibility of our graduate programs.

Photo Caption: Alumna Lisa Craig, President Helen Drinan, and her husband David Drinan at the Road Show kick off event this fall

President Helen Drinan's 100-Year Vision Road Show is off to a great start after visiting nine cities in three months. With a successful kick-off event at the Boston Public Library in September, the road show introduces the College's vision for the future to audiences around the country and celebrates our history of innovation and leadership.

"I was proud to showcase Strategy 2015, which is the result of the hard work of the Simmons community," said Drinan of the Boston event.

In addition to Strategy 2015, President Drinan also presents information about The Making Education Work Campaign, which is more than halfway to the $85 million goal. The largest campaign in Simmons history, Making Education Work will help generate new scholarships for students and help make strategic investments for academic programs.

The 100-Year Vision Road Show with President Drinan has several stops remaining in 2012, including from Palm Beach, Florida and Denver, Colorado.

Photo caption: U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (5th from left) and Simmons College President Helen Drinan and presidents of women's colleges around the country.

Simmons College President Helen Drinan joined U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and other top U.S. women's colleges and leaders from around the world for the inaugural colloquium of the Women in the Public Service Project (TWPSP). The Project seeks to identify and educate a new generation of women committed to public service, create an infrastructure of support and mentoring, and help enable more women to enter public service and political leadership.

Clinton delivered the keynote address at the colloquium. Other speakers include Christine Lagarde, managing director of the International Monetary Fund; Dr. Florence Chenoweth, Minister of Agriculture for the Republic of Liberia; Kathleen Sebelius, U.S. Secretary of Health & Human Services; Melanne Verveer, Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women's Issues; Gloria Steinem, author and activist, and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.

The colloquium aims to draw public attention to the importance of increasing participation and leadership roles for women in public service; explore creative solutions to increasing the number of young women who aspire to and are empowered to pursue a career in public service; and build a network of advocates and expertise that will help advance this effort. ]]> Simmons President Helen Drinan joins US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and other top women leaders at 'Women in the Public Service Project' http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/52.php Simmons College President and Leadership News December 4, 2011

Photo caption:
Front row: Simmons students Maleena Lee and Marissa Soucy, President Helen Drinan, Simmons students Sarah Vaccaro, Alycia Snell, Katharine McGraves-Lloyd
Back row: Simmons student Ariel Mueller, Professors Donna Beers and David Browder

Undergraduate math students were inducted into Pi Mu Epsilon, the national mathematics honor society, during the 3rd annual induction ceremony Dec.1. Hosted by mathematics professors Donna Beers, David Browder, and David Novak, the ceremony highlighted the achievements of the math majors. Pi Mu Epsilon has chapters at more than 340 colleges and universities throughout the United States, with the purpose of promoting "scholarly activity in mathematics among students in academic institutions." President Helen Drinan attended the ceremony and spoke highly of the students, noting that their mathematics experience would "encourage someone to consider a math major!"

Photo caption: David Drinan, President Helen Drinan, Eileen Friars and her husband, Scott Pyle

At a special event last month that included Simmons College trustees, corporators, alumnae/i, senior administrators, and others, the College honored alumna and Trustee Eileen Friars with the designation Trustee Emerita. Friars served on the Simmons College Board of Trustees for 15 years since 1996. The evening included a reception; songs from the Simmons Choir; tributes from Trustees Regina Pisa, Dwight Crane, and Emily Scott Pottruck, and from Associate Dean and Professor Cathie Mercier and College Registrar Donna Dolan. Friars also was surprised with a special video made to recognize her years of service to Simmons.

During a toast for Friars, President Helen Drinan said, "Your contributions have been particularly distinguished in the areas of fundraising, financial leadership, and mentoring. In all that you have done as a trustee, you have consistently put Simmons first. Our recognition of you as Trustee Emerita is an honor you richly deserve, and one we are thrilled to bestow on you."

Photo caption: A cake with the image of founder John Simmons

Photo caption: The new Class of 2015 flag

Photo caption: Simmons President Helen Drinan, Computer Science Professor Nanette Veilleux, and 2011 John Simmons Essay Contest Winner Marie Ledger

On Monday, Oct. 31, the College celebrated the birthday of founder John Simmons. During this ceremony, Simmons unveiled the new Class of 2015 flag, and recognized first-year student Marie Ledger, who was the winner of the 2011 John Simmons Essay Contest.

To read more about John Simmons, visit the archives website.

Making Education Work Campaign from SimmonsCollege on Vimeo.

As part of Simmons's Making Education Work Campaign, President Drinan is travelling the country this year, visiting 11 states on a cross-country road show. During these trips, President Drinan will be talking about Simmons's new Strategy 2015, the College's 100-year vision, and sharing the latest Making Education Work Campaign video, which includes footage and comments from some of our most high profile alumni — including US Archivist David Ferreiro, Entrepreneur Ali Brown, and NBC News Correspondent Rehema Ellis. These alumni talk about the unique attributes of Simmons and how their education has helped them achieve success.

Photo Caption: A view of the performers in the Linda K. Paresky Center at Simmons College.

Photo Caption: Associate Provost Andrew Effrat and Simmons Trustee and Alumna Andrea Waldstein

In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire — considered the deadliest industrial tragedy of its time, Simmons College held a special multi-media performance last night entitled "The Cloth From Which We Are Cut." Many members of the Simmons community, including President Helen Drinan, attended this moving event.

Presented by the Yiddish Community Chorus A Besere Velt, and Boston Workmen's Circle, the performance commemorates the death of 146 young, mostly Jewish and Italian immigrant women in New York City in 1911.

Photo Caption: Simmons President Helen Drinan, Mayor Tom Menino, and Mission Safe Executive Director Nikki Flionis

President Helen Drinan attended the 10-year anniversary celebration for Mission Safe last night at Simmons College. The event included an appearance by Boston Mayor Thomas Menino, who received an award recognizing his support of the organization.

Based in the Mission Hill area of Boston, Mission Safe works with at-risk youth and young adults offering programs and activities to help them develop personal, life, health, and social skills. The Simmons Scott/Ross Center for Community Service has been a partner with the organization since its inception, offering Simmons students as interns and mentors, and providing space at the college for Mission Safe activities and programs.

First-year and transfer students were officially welcomed to the Simmons campus Sept. 4 when they moved in to their dorm rooms. Street Team members (moving assistants), orientation leaders, resident assistants, and student athletes all helped and ensured that the move-in process was well-organized and efficient. In the afternoon, new first year students, transfer students, and their families gathered in the Holmes Sports Center to be officially welcomed to the College. ]]> Move In Day http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/62.php Simmons College President and Leadership News August 10, 2011

Simmons hosted the Summer Seedlings Program this summer on campus. The innovative, alternative middle school summer school program hosted Boston students where daily activities included math, English, and language arts lessons as well as entrepreneurial and art projects. To conclude the summer program, Boston Mayor Tom Menino visited the campus Aug. 10 and thanked Simmons for hosting the group and its importance to the Boston community and area students. ]]> Summer Seedlings Program at Simmons Visited by Boston Mayor Tom Menino http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/60.php Simmons College President and Leadership News September 7, 2011

Tony award-winning choreographer George Faison, President Helen Drinan, Provost Charlena Seymour, and Ted Schnugg from the Faison Firehouse Theater in New York City visited Simmons May 4 ]]> President Drinan Welcomes Guests to Campus http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/43.php Simmons College President and Leadership News December 18, 2010

President Drinan poses with the Simmons Shark during the College's "Take a Fun Break" college-wide ice cream social on the Main Campus Quad. ]]> President Drinan at Summer Ice Cream Social http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/67.php Simmons College President and Leadership News May 14, 2010

Retiring faculty members (from top left) Ann Fleck-Henderson, Ching-Chih Chen, Jill Taylor, Velda Goldberg, Raquel Halty, Barbara Sawtelle, James Baughman, Helen Reinherz, and Robert Oppenheim with President Drinan. Photo by John Gillooly. ]]> 2010 Annual Service Awards http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/35.php Simmons College President and Leadership News March 25, 2010

On March 25, 60 students and more than 50 alumnae gathered for the 10th anniversary of the annual Economics Student-Alumnae Networking Dinner. The goal of the event is to teach networking skills, structure student engagement with the alumnae network, and create lasting mentoring relationships between students and alumnae. Attendees also took time to honor retiring faculty member and Economics Professor Barbara Sawtelle. In this photo: Alumnae join President Helen Drinan (center) and Economics Professor Carole Biewener (right) at the annual Economics Student-Alumnae Networking Dinner ]]> 2010 10th Annual Economics Student-Alumnae Networking Dinner http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/42.php Simmons College President and Leadership News March 21, 2010

Simmons College President Helen Drinan, Simmons College Master's in Communications Management Program Director Joan Abrams, Executive Director of the Women's Lunch Place Sharon Reilly, and Master's in Communications Management Adjunct Professor Kate deLima ]]> Women Who Lunch with the Women's Lunch Place of Boston http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/64.php Simmons College President and Leadership News May 14, 2009

President Helen Drinan posed with Simmons Alumna Gwen Ifill, a member of the class of 1977, along with a group of Simmons students, faculty and staff, at the JFK Library in Boston. Ifill, who is a senior correspondent for PBS's The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer and managing editor of Washington Week, participated in a conversation with New York Times columnist Bob Herbert about her new book, "The Breakthrough: Politics and Race in the Age of Obama" (Doubleday 2008). ]]> President Drinan with Simmons Alumna Gwen Ifill http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/37.php Simmons College President and Leadership News November 12, 2008

President Helen Drinan and Simmons students at the 1899 Society reception. The 1899 Society recognizes alumnae/i, parents and friends who support Simmons through cumulative annual gifts of $1,000 or more. Top left to right: Elizabeth A. Kinney '12, Claudia DeJesus '11, Samantha A. Furbush '09, Jessica Kowalski '09, Kenyora L. Johnson '10, Helen G. Drinan '75LS, '78SM, President, and Traci K. Farrell '09 ]]> 1899 Society Reception http://www.simmons.edu/overview/about/leadership/news/55.php Simmons College President and Leadership News October 27, 2008