The Distinguished Service Award is bestowed upon an individual whose service has been exemplary. This honor extends beyond the circle of William Penn alumni to those who embody the William Penn commitment to community and humanitarian service. There are opportunities for service here at William Penn University, but none more significant than leadership to the Alumni Association. Serving on the Alumni Association Council for two terms as President has led to a continuity of alumni action, an increase in communication and creating pathways for ideas to take flight.
Working in collaboration with the Council Members and the Advancement Office the monthly Statesmen Scoop communication is coordinated through Simmons’ effort. The Alumni Council is excited to be hosting the first ‘Overtime’ party on Saturday, October 26th for all alumni, families and friends of William Penn University. “The night won’t last forever, but our memories will,” Simmons stated.
Graduating with a degree in physical education, Simmons has devoted most of his career supporting and organizing athletic endeavors, starting with his undergraduate days as a student athletic trainer under the guidance of the legendary Coach Leon Richardson. Following graduation, Simmons accepted the position of Head Athletic Trainer at Cornell College in Mount Vernon, IA, and held that position for 17 years.
Wanting to be of service, Simmons became invaluable as he assisted the Director of Athletics with daily operations, yearly strategic planning and was the institution’s conference and NCAA compliance officer. He also assisted in student organizations serving as the advisor for the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and served as lead event manager for home athletic events. He collaborated with alumni and staff members on the Hall of Fame selection and the yearly golf outing fundraiser committees.
Stepping up to the plate, or should that be mat, Simmons served on the NCAA Division III Wrestling Committee from 2011-2016, assisting in the regionalization of NCAA Division III Wrestling. During that time, he served as the chair of the committee for three different years. He also assisted with the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships in 2012 & 2013.
Simmons served as the Wrestling Championship Tournament Director for 2008-2010, 2013-2014, 2016, 2020 and 2022 NCAA Division III Wrestling Championships; the 2021 National Wrestling Coaches Association NCAA Division III Championship; and the 2023 & 2024 National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling Championship. For his commitment to the athletic program, Simmons was inducted into the NCAA Division III National Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame as a contributor in 2016.
In his off time, Simmons developed and supports web content for all businesses located in the community center in Mount Vernon. He also serves as the BHS-BGM High School Alumni Association Committee Chair.
For his volunteerism and willingness to serve, William Penn is honored to recognize Dick Simmons as the 2024 Distinguished Service Award recipient.