Shout-outs from Students and Alums
Building Confidence to Lead in Online Degree Program
Simmons’ online degree completion program gave Rashida Alisha Hagakore ‘24 more than a degree in business — it transformed her career trajectory. Gaining confidence, leadership skills, and a new professional identity, she advanced into a supervisory role and now approaches her work with clarity, strategy, and purpose.
Social Work Alum Advances Community Mental Health
Jordyn Hagar '23PhD reflects on how the Social Work PhD helped her successfully develop and disseminate her mental health awareness training program, Stronger Together, which is now accessible online.
A Global Perspective on Nutrition
Recent graduate Mishal Ali '26 reflects on how learning home-cooked Pakistani cuisine informed her studies in nutrition and dietetics at Simmons.
From Med School to Nursing
Jenni Costa ’27MSN is a student in the direct entry Master of Science in nursing and post-graduate Certificate family nurse practitioner (MSN/PGC FNP), an accelerated program for students who completed a bachelor’s degree in a field outside of nursing.
Bridging Public Art and Public Service
Art history major Cathie Behrend ’70 recently received a Legacy Award from the 92nd Street Y in New York City. We spoke with her about receiving this honor, her love of art and public service, and her Simmons experience.
Forging a Path in Community Health
Joan Vera ’27MSN shares her experience in the direct entry Master of Science in nursing and post-graduate certificate family nurse practitioner (MSN/PGC FNP), an accelerated program for students who completed a bachelor’s degree in a field outside of nursing.
SLIS Alumnae/i Named Movers & Shakers
Jessica Chapel ’19MS and Katelyn Duncan ’16MS were selected for the 2026 Movers & Shakers by Library Journal.
Discovering a Social Work Calling at Simmons
Brinika Hargrove ’27 found renewed hope and support through Simmons’ online degree completion program, balancing motherhood, work, and school with determination. Now pursuing social work, she’s channeling her experiences into a passion for advocacy, using her education to uplift families and communities in need.