Jeffrey Simms

Jeffrey A. Simms is an Assistant Professor and Associate Chair for Alumni and External Affairs in the Department of Health Policy and Management at UNC’s Gillings School of Global Public Health. He specializes in alumni engagement, professional development for students, and healthcare administration policy. Simms holds an MSPH in Public Health from UNC (1996), an MDiv from Duke University (1999), and a BA in Public Policy Analysis from UNC (1990).

Research & Professional Experience: Simms previously served in leadership roles at the NC Department of Health & Human Services, managing Medicaid programs and rural health initiatives. His work focuses on strengthening healthcare systems in underserved areas, including the HealthNet Uninsured initiative and Pharmacy Assistance programs. He has co-authored seminal articles on alumni engagement frameworks and DEIB strategies in healthcare education.

• Leads alumni relations and career services for Gillings School students
• Chair of the Center for Health and Healing’s Board of Directors
• Active in faith-based healthcare initiatives (First Baptist Church of Lucama, New Vester Missionary Baptist Church)

Key Contributions: His recent research emphasizes mutually beneficial alumni-academic partnerships and addressing diversity gaps in healthcare leadership. Simms has presented nationwide on public health policy and rural healthcare challenges.