Bellevue University Alum Puts HR Degree to Work
Right after high school, Mary Simmonds enrolled at Southwest Texas State. Life quickly got in the way, though, and she was only able to complete about half her studies.
Instead, Simmonds began a career in human resources — a field she initially entered based on her aptitude for it. She learned the role quickly, and the company she was working for invested in her growth by providing support for her to obtain a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification.
But she wanted more. This led her to return to college – specifically to Bellevue University.
“I looked at options that would work for my life,” Simmonds explained. “I had three children living at home who were very busy. Bellevue University gave me some experiential learning credits and transferred all of my other credits in. I liked the cohort style and was able to complete my bachelor’s degree in management of human resources.”
Since earning her degree, Simmonds has worked her way up the HR ladder.
I looked at options that would work for my life. I had three children living at home who were very busy. Bellevue University gave me some experiential learning credits and transferred all of my other credits in. I liked the cohort style and was able to complete my bachelor’s degree in management of human resources.
“I’ve also become more confident in how I deliver for my companies,” she said. “I’ve worked in nonprofit as a director of HR with full responsibility and in corporate in a similar role. Both provided me with a lot of knowledge and experience I continue to build upon.”
Today marks more than 30 years of Simmonds being an HR professional. She’s worked at organizations like the Omaha World-Herald, the Omaha Home for Boys, and Radio Engineering Industries. Simmonds currently serves as vice president of human resources for Marvel Medical Staffing, where she works with fellow Bellevue alumna Candace Clow, who founded the company.
“She had a different experience than I did, as I was an adult learner and she was an athlete,” Simmonds shared. “We think it’s awesome we both had the same foundation though.”
Ultimately, what makes Simmonds most proud of her educational journey is the fact that she was able to return to college and earn her degree.
“I have the satisfaction of completing it after all of those years wanting to finish,” she said.