Monica Simmons has over 20 years of experience in the community college system, with a strong background in leadership and teaching. Currently, she serves as the Department Chair for Medical Office & Legal Professions and the Program Coordinator for Medical Office Administration at Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She is a dedicated educator, committed to fostering student success and faculty growth through innovative practices and collaboration. Monica holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Winston-Salem State University and a Master of Arts in Counselor Education from Virginia State University. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Community College Leadership at North Carolina State University. At Forsyth Tech, Monica works closely with the college to promote professional development initiatives and reimagine faculty-centered approaches to teaching and learning. She plays a key role in designing continuing education programs and fostering program development to meet the needs of students and the community. A recipient of the prestigious Belk Center Fellowship, Monica collaborated on projects focused on enhancing mid-level leadership training and professional development within the North Carolina Community College System. She has also completed the TPM Academy (Talent Pipeline Management), strengthening her ability to build effective partnerships between education and industry. Her contributions have helped shape training strategies that align with institutional goals and workforce readiness. Monica?s professional mission is to support educational excellence by integrating practical workforce skills into academic programs, mentoring faculty, and developing programs that empower both students and educators. She values collaboration, strategic planning, and continuous improvement in education. In her free time, Monica enjoys spending time with her family?her husband, Jerry, and her children, Jeremy and Moriah?and supporting her local community.