Shannan Simms

Dr. Shannan L. Simms serves as a contributing faculty member at Walden University within the College of Management and Human Potential, where she teaches graduate courses in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. With over 25 years of experience as an organizational transformation strategist, Dr. Simms brings a wealth of practical knowledge and expertise to her teaching. Her career spans consulting across multiple sectors—energy, government, higher education, healthcare, and more—where she has partnered with leaders at every level (C-suite to frontline, experienced to aspiring) to navigate the complexities of change and drive strategic adoption for large-scale initiatives.

Dr. Simms’s teaching philosophy is grounded in her commitment to lifelong learning and developing others. As a facilitator, she blends performance with insightful direction, creating a dynamic environment that encourages critical thinking and practical application. Her unique ability to translate complex concepts into relatable, real-world examples is enhanced by her extensive experience as a business consultant. Dr. Simms believes in meeting learners where they are and guiding them through transformative learning experiences that foster both professional growth and personal development.

In addition to her teaching, Dr. Simms is recognized for her leadership in designing and delivering customized learning solutions. Her academic contributions include serving as a dissertation chair and committee member, authoring courses for Walden’s School of Lifelong Learning, and presenting original research at national conferences. A prolific and sought-after industry presenter, Dr. Simms has delivered numerous keynote presentations and workshops across the country. Notably, her presentation, “The Pain is Real”, delivered at Walden University's Real World Solutions for Real World Conference: Expanding the Women in Leadership Advantage, highlighted the intersection of chronic pain and leadership, emphasizing the often-overlooked strengths of women navigating these challenges.

Dr. Simms is also the founder of Athena’s Ally, a leadership and business coaching-consultancy firm dedicated to supporting female leaders as they navigate career transitions, non-traditional career paths, and the challenges of leading with chronic pain. Through Athena’s Ally, Dr. Simms empowers women leaders to leverage their hidden strengths and advocate for themselves in today’s dynamic work environment, unapologetically.

Dr. Simms holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Development and Leadership from the University of the Rockies (now the University of Arizona Global Campus), an M.A. in Psychological Services from Marymount University, and a B.A. in Psychology from Kent State University. She is a certified Prosci® Advanced Instructor and a Project Management Professional (PMP®).

Selected Courses Taught:
** Consulting for Organizational Change (PSYC-8214, PBHL-8214, IPSY-8214)
** Consulting Skills Intensive Virtual Residency (DRWI-8504)
** Dynamics of Contemporary International and Virtual Organizations (PBHL-8216, PSYC-8216/6216, IPSY-8216/6216)
** Strategic Planning for Global Management & Leadership (IPSY-6540/8540)
**Business Concepts for Organizational Development Professionals (IPSY 6005/8005)

Education

PhD, Ashford University

MA, Marymount University

BA, Kent State University