Simmons University

Notable alumni

• Gwen Ifill (USA)

  Graduated from Simmons University

  Earned a BA in Communications in 1977.

  Lifetime achievements

  A successful journalist, newscaster and author, Gwen was the first African-American woman to host a national public affairs TV show. She has also moderated presidential debates, and was the managing editor of Washington Week.

• Denise Di Novi (USA)

  Graduated from Simmons University

  Received a degree in journalism.

  Lifetime Achievements

  A successful film producer and director, Denise has worked on a wide variety of Hollywood films over multiple decades including Edward Scissorhands, Batman Returns and Little Women.

• Princess Srinagarindra (Thailand)

  Graduated from Simmons University

  Studied healthcare, nutrition, chemistry and childcare between 1921 and 1927.

  Lifetime Achievements

  Princess Srinagarindra was the Princess Mother of Thailand, and served her country throughout a remarkable life across the 20th century, until her death in 1995. She was a patron of public health, education and social welfare policies and initiatives, and has received numerous honours.

• Bertha Leticia Navarro Ochoa (Mexico)

  Graduated from Simmons University

  Pursued graduate studies at Simmons University.

  Lifetime Achievements

  Leticia Navarro is a Mexican entrepreneur and politician. She served as the Secretary of Tourism in the government of President Vincente Fox, and has held senior positions in Gillette and JAFRA Cosmetics.

• Nnenna Freelon (USA)

  Graduated from Simmons University

  Graduated with a degree in healthcare administration.

  Lifetime Achievements

  Nnenna is a jazz singer, composer, producer and arranger. She is a six-time Grammy Award nominee, and has worked with a long and varied list of jazz stars, including Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin and Herbie Hancock.

• Ann M. Fudge (USA)

  Graduated from Simmons University

  Graduated with a BA (honors) in Retail Management.

  Lifetime Achievements

  Ann was the former chairman and CEO of Young & Rubicam, and served on President Barack Obama’s National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform.