Carrie Whitten Simmons, MA, serves as the communications lead for Arizona State University International Development Initiative (IDI). The IDI team works with ASU faculty and project teams in countries around the world to utilize ASU expertise on development projects to further positive impact on global communities. In this role, Simmons directs communications strategy and implementation, including community and media relations, partnership development, and marketing. Collaborating with faculty, donors, and implementing partners, Simmons offers guidance and support to many international development projects. Recent project work includes the Center of Excellence for Energy working to support Egypt in reaching its goal of 42% renewable energy by 2035 and Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Legacy Localization supporting the YALI Regional Leadership Centers, based in Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa, to reach their vision of a sub-Saharan Africa-wide transformational youth leadership program, YALI Africa.
Prior to joining ASU, Simmons was the director of marketing, communications, and engagement for All of Us Research Program, an NIH grant implemented by University of Arizona. Simmons is an entrepreneur as well, founding and operating a business for 20+ years. She is a fourth generation Arizonan, graduating with a bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, and creative writing with a minor in Spanish from Northern Arizona University, and a master's degree in political psychology from Arizona State University.