Joe Simmons, Mhrm
About Joe Simmons, Mhrm
Joe Simmons, MHRM, is the DEIA Manager at NWEA, where he focuses on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives. He has extensive experience in human resources, having held various roles at institutions such as The University of Memphis and Shelby County Schools.
Work at NWEA
Joe Simmons currently serves as the DEIA Manager at NWEA, a position he has held since 2022. In this role, he actively pursues diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives within the organization. He supports the Vice President of DEIA in achieving the metrics and milestones outlined in the DEIA strategic plan and Annual Operating Plan (AOP). Joe has contributed to the DEIA team by collaborating on projects, participating in goal setting, and developing organizational policies that foster an inclusive workplace. He has also conducted research on DEIA trends and prepared summaries to inform organizational strategies.
Previous Experience in Human Resources
Joe Simmons has extensive experience in human resources across various organizations. He worked at The University of Memphis as a Senior HR Business Partner from 2019 to 2021 and as a Human Resources Associate from 2018 to 2019. Prior to that, he held roles at Shelby County Schools, including Compensation Analyst and Compensation Associate. His experience also includes positions at DeVry University, Victory University, and Strayer University, where he focused on recruitment and admissions. Additionally, he served as a Senior Human Resources Partner at NWEA for 11 months before becoming the DEIA Manager.
Educational Background
Joe Simmons holds a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management from Webster University, which he completed between 2004 and 2006. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Memphis, studying from 1994 to 2000. His educational background provides a strong foundation for his work in human resources and DEIA initiatives.
Engagement and Community Involvement
In his professional roles, Joe Simmons engages with students, educators, schools, and communities. He finds his work in DEIA challenging yet meaningful and satisfying. His commitment to fostering an inclusive environment is evident through his collaboration with various organizational teams, including People and Culture and Legal, to identify procedural needs and develop effective solutions.