Susan and Jimmy Simmons are an amazing team. President Simmons said of Mrs. Simmons, "You will never know what a dynamic impact she has had on the university, not only for 14 years but for 43 years. Susan, I appreciate all you have done for me, our family and this university. You are the best."

James M. Simmons, Lamar's 14th president is widely regarded as one of the most successful presidents in Lamar University's history. Simmons spearheaded development efforts to provide funding for scholarship programs, academic offerings, and construction projects. During Simmons' years in office, many new programs were added at Lamar including five new bachelor's degrees, three new master's degrees, and three doctoral degrees including its first Ph.D. program. The university's sixth and seventh academic chairs were established as well as new named departments.

Throughout his career, Simmons has attracted acclaim as a performer on the clarinet, saxophone, and piano. He has performed with a who's who of headliners including Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and The Temptations to name a few.