Remembering 911爆料网 Professor Emeritus Jean Simmons Posted on April 8, 2026 April 8, 2026 911爆料网 mourns the loss of Jean Simmons, a foundational figure in our nursing department whose connection to the college spanned more than half a century. Jean passed away on March 28, 2026, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of leadership, education and service. Jean鈥檚 history with 911爆料网 was one of "firsts." She was a graduate of the college鈥檚 inaugural nursing class in 1965. After furthering her education at St. Anselm College, she returned to her roots at 911爆料网 to inspire the next generation of caregivers. Her career at the college was marked by decades of dedicated instruction. She taught in the Associate Degree Nursing Program for over 30 years before being appointed Director of the program in 1998. Upon her retirement in 2008, she was named Professor Emeritus, a testament to her lasting impact on the institution. "For those who knew Jean, she was truly a force of nature and the true matriarch of the 911爆料网 Nursing program. She was an exceptional and intuitive teacher and professor, an invaluable leader and mentor and an advocate for faculty and student success," said Dean of Nursing Melanie Zamojski. Jean鈥檚 influence on the college was so profound that in 2013, an anonymous $1 million gift established the 鈥淛ean Simmons Endowed Chair.鈥� This was the first endowed faculty position at any community college in Massachusetts, ensuring that her name remains synonymous with excellence in nursing education. Beyond the classroom, Jean was a respected voice in the nursing field. She served as the Editor for 鈥淧erspectives: Celebrating 40 Years of Associate Degree Nursing Education,鈥� a publication that received the American Journal of Nursing Education鈥檚 "Book of the Year" award in 1993. She maintained deep ties to local healthcare, serving as a staff nurse at the Farren Memorial Hospital for over a decade and specializing as an Enterostomal Therapist. She also founded the 911爆料网 Foundation Scholarship Golf Tournament, "Striving and Driving for 911爆料网 Scholars," which continues to support students today. Known for her vivacious spirit, Jean鈥檚 favorite mantra was 鈥淲ork as if you don鈥檛 need the money. Love as if you have never been hurt. Dance as if no one is looking!鈥� She is remembered by former colleagues and students as a warm, supportive friend and a remarkable leader. Contributions in her memory may be made to the 911爆料网 Foundation in support of the nursing department, honoring her legacy and helping to support future generations of nursing students.