Simmons alumna and Honorary Trustee Jane Buyers writes with honesty and insight about her years working at the center of major moments in financial history, from the 2008 stock market crash to 9/11. Eight Septembers is not only a story about Wall Street during periods of crisis — it’s also a deeply personal account of leadership, resilience, and the challenge of balancing professional and personal responsibilities.
What stayed with me most was Jane’s willingness to examine the rewards and pressures of high-stakes leadership with candor and compassion. Her perspective feels especially meaningful at a time when many people are considering how work, purpose, and well-being intersect in their own lives.
I am excited to continue this conversation during Reunion Weekend, when we will discuss Jane’s journey from Simmons to the center of the 2008 financial crisis, followed by a Q&A and book signing.
Wicked by Gregory Maguire ’78MA, published by ReganBooks
Gregory Maguire has long been an important part of the Simmons story. One of the earliest graduates of Simmons’ master’s program in children’s literature, he later returned as a faculty member and helped shape generations of writers and scholars. This spring, he also delivered one of the most memorable Commencement addresses I have had the privilege to hear.
While many readers know Wicked through the Broadway musical or recent film adaptation, returning to the novel itself is a reminder of Gregory’s extraordinary imagination and insight. His retelling of Oz challenges readers to look beyond simplistic ideas of “good” and “wicked” and to consider how power, fear, and misunderstanding shape the stories societies tell.
During Commencement, I shared a line from Wicked that continues to resonate with me: "Remember this: Nothing is written in the stars. Not these stars, nor any others. No one controls your destiny." That spirit of possibility and self-determination makes Wicked an especially timely summer read.
As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, We the Women offers a timely and inspiring reminder that women have long helped shape the American experience, often without receiving the recognition they deserved. Through stories of activists, reformers, journalists, and leaders, the authors illuminate the courage and persistence of women who expanded the promise of democracy and helped move the nation forward.
As Simmons reflects on more than 125 years of educating leaders, this book resonates deeply with our mission of women-centered education and preparing leaders who drive meaningful change. It also reminds us that progress is driven by people willing to challenge assumptions, advocate for others, and build a better world for future generations.
Turn the Tide by Elaine Dimopoulos ’08MFA, published by Clarion Books
Elaine Dimopoulos, a graduate of Simmons’ MFA program in Writing for Children, has written a thoughtful and hopeful novel-in-verse about environmental activism and finding your voice.
At the center of the story is a young girl who becomes inspired to take action after witnessing the impact of plastic pollution in her community. As she navigates friendship, uncertainty, and advocacy, she discovers that meaningful change often begins with small but courageous steps.
I especially appreciate the way this book highlights the creativity, compassion, and determination of young people who care deeply about their communities and the future of our planet. Elaine has said that Simmons instilled in her “a deep respect for children’s literature,” and this novel is a wonderful example of how stories can encourage young readers to see themselves as changemakers.
Mr. Chow’s Night Market by Emily Sun Li ’24MA/MFA, published by Penguin Workshop
Emily Sun Li brings warmth, humor, and imagination to her debut picturebook Mr. Chow’s Night Market, which started out as a Simmons writing assignment.
Inspired by Sun Li’s experiences living and teaching in Taiwan, the story follows a grumpy supermarket owner who discovers that his sleepy grocery store may be better suited for life after dark. As the market transforms into a lively night market, the book becomes a joyful celebration of community, creativity, and embracing the rhythms that make us who we are.
What I especially appreciate about this story is its underlying message: there is no single right way to live, work, or create. Through whimsical storytelling and vivid imagery, Sun Li encourages readers of all ages to imagine new possibilities for themselves and their communities.
As a Simmons graduate, Sun Li has spoken beautifully about her love for children’s literature as “storytelling in its rawest, purest form.” That sense of joy and authenticity shines throughout this book.
