Activism Today
Simmons students protest beech tree removal, 2005.
Simmons students from the School of Library Science create a mobile library for Occupy Boston, 2011.
The tradition of Simmons student involvement continues through the 21st century. Students participated in environmental issues, attempting in 2005 to stop the removal of beech trees located behind the Main College Building in the mistaken belief that one of the trees was the oak tree featured prominently on the College seal. Students participated in the Occupy Boston protest, as well as more recent protests including the Boston Women's March in January, 2017.
Simmons students have also participated in community outreach in conjunction with the Scott/Ross Center for Community Service. The Scott/Ross Center combines education with civic engagement, giving Simmons students the change to give back by working closely with one of approximately sixty community-based organizations the Center is involved with.
Simmons students participate in Alternative Spring Break in conjunction with the Scott/Ross Center for Community Service, 2012.
Photos from the Women's March in Boston, published in The Simmons Voice, February 1, 2017.
From the College's conception, John Simmons had a vision of a school in which women would be able to earn an independent livelihood—an idea that necessitates critical thinking and action. Since the College opened its doors to students in 1902, Simmons students have actively participated in creating a community and space that supports their ideals.
Whether it be by creating a Student Government Association, writing in one of the first school papers to be controlled entirely by the student body, participating in war protests and women's marches, or demanding changes in policy regarding investment, Simmons students continue to fight for what they believe in and drive change for future generations of students.