Chaplain Donald C. Simmons Jr., Ph.D., has been announced as director of North Mississippi Medical Center’s Pastoral Care Department.
The Rev. Simmons’ ties with NMMC go back a number of years, as he was born at Webster General Hospital, now NMMC-Eupora. He is a graduate of Nanih Waiya High School in Winston County. His post-graduate education includes stints at East Mississippi Community College, the University of Mississippi and Denver University.
He began his career in higher education, predominantly working in United Methodist institutions. His most recent academic appointment was as dean and director of Leadership and Public Service at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, S.D.
While at DWU, Simmons was appointed by then-Gov. Mike Rounds to serve on the South Dakota Board of Nursing. He has also served as a guest editorial board member for the Journal of Health and Human Services Administration, as well as authoring and editing more than 20 books, including “Organizational Leadership: Foundations and Practices for Christians” (InterVarsity Press, 2014), which is used by seminaries worldwide.
The film he produced, “Hungry for Green: Feeding the World Sustainably,” premiered at Harvard University Medical School’s Center for Health and the Global Environment before airing on Public Broadcasting Service.
Simmons served as pastor of the Tremont United Methodist Charge before joining NMMC. He was a volunteer chaplain at NMMC for three years. His clinical pastoral education was through the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy in New York.
Simmons is a certified member of the American Police Chaplains Association. He completed additional study at Sioux Falls Seminary and Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University. Simmons has plans to pursue a second Ph.D., a doctorate of ministry in pastoral care, this year.
NMMC’s Pastoral Care Department provides assistance and spiritual support during hospitalization to people of all faith traditions.
“Don Simmons’ diverse experience, compassionate commitment and faith align beautifully with the mission, vision and values of our healthcare system,” said Angela Coggins, NMMC’s director of Case Management. “We are delighted to have Reverend Simmons leading the meaningful spiritual support of our patients, families, guests and employees.”
Simmons lives in Tupelo with his wife, Bernika. They have three children.
