Simmons named director of corporate, foundation and community relations at SC State
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ed ‘Rocky’ Simmons to the Division of University Advancement & Strategic communications as our new director of corporate, foundation and community relations,” said Dr. John Michael Lee, Jr., SC State’s vice president for university advancement and strategic communications. “Dr. Simmons brings a unique blend of academic insight, community and government engagement, and fundraising experience and grant writing expertise that will elevate our efforts to forge transformative partnerships.
“His leadership will play a pivotal role in expanding our reach, deepening our impact, and advancing the mission of SC State University,” Lee said.
Simmons is a dedicated leader in public policy, economic development, and education.
As director of corporate, foundation and community relations, he leads strategic partnerships and fundraising efforts to support the institution’s mission and growth. He cultivates relationships with corporate, philanthropic, and community stakeholders to advance programs, scholarships, and community impact initiatives.
A native of Orangeburg, Simmons earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from SC State. He holds a Ph.D. in public policy and administration, a Master of Philosophy in public policy, and a Master of Public Administration from Walden University.
He also earned professional certifications in project management from the University of South Carolina, economic development from the South Carolina Economic Development Institute, and human resource management from Walden University.
Simmons is passionate about education and community empowerment. He serves as an adjunct professor at Benedict College within the School of Criminal Justice Administration and Social Sciences, where he teaches and mentors students in subjects such as ethics and public administration. He is also the founder of the I’m Possible Scholarship Fund, a nonprofit organization that supports high school seniors who have lost a parent in their pursuit of higher education.
Simmons is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., the Leadership Columbia Alumni Association, and several professional organizations.
Before returning to SC State, Simmons served as grants manager for York County, South Carolina, from 2024-2025; community/economic development planner for the Central Midlands Council of Governments from 2022-2024; special projects coordinator for the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice from 2019-2022; and a civil clerk for the Orangeburg County Clerk of Court from 2017-2019.
Simmons is happily married to Mrs. Shelby Simmons, whose love and encouragement inspire his lifelong commitment to service, excellence, and the belief that “nothing is impossible.”