Dr. Simmons completed undergraduate studies with honors at Xavier University of Louisiana with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and obtained her Doctor of Optometry from the University of Missouri-St. Louis College of Optometry in 2003. During her time at UMSL, Dr. Simmons was involved in various student organizations.
Upon graduation, Dr. Simmons pursued specialized training in Ocular Disease Management/Primary Care through an accredited residency program at the VA Hudson Valley Health Care System in Montrose, NY. During her residency, Dr. Simmons was nationally recognized at the American Academy of Optometry and the American Optometric Association where she presented several invited posters. Post residency, she worked in a variety of practice modalities and received additional training in refractive management.
Currently, Dr. Simmons precepts College of Optometry students at community based clinics in St. Louis and East St. Louis, and is involved in various didactic courses in the curriculum. Additionally, Dr. Simmons has received the ASCO Diversity Grant in order to create and coordinate the Eyes on Diversity, which seeks to introduce underrepresented minority students to the profession of optometry. Lastly, Dr. Simmons is an active member of the American Optometric Association, Missouri Optometric Association (committee member public relations), St. Louis Optometric Society, ASCO Optometry Diversity and Cultural Competency Committee, and Cultural Competency Curriculum Guidelines Subcommittee.
Associate Dean of Student Services and Alumni Relations, Director of Continuing Education, Assistant Clinical Professor
