Debra Adams Simmons

Debra Adams Simmons currently serves as Editor in Chief for Special Projects at GBH since August 2023. Simmons has a distinguished career at National Geographic, holding roles as Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Executive Editor for History & Culture since July 2017. Additionally, Simmons contributes as an Adjunct Faculty member at Kent State University and as a Senior Consultant in journalism and philanthropy. Previous experiences include a fellowship at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard, leadership positions at Advance Local and Plain Dealer Publishing Co., and editorial roles at multiple respected publications. Debra holds a Bachelor's Degree from Syracuse University and has continuing educational ties to Harvard University.