The life and legacy of Gwendolyn Simmons, a dedicated leader and advocate, will be celebrated on March 31 at the 2025 Jennie Carter Award ceremony.

Simmons, who died in January 2024, will receive the award, named in memory of Jennie Adams Carter, the first African-American to graduate from California, in 1881, at PennWest California. Members of Simmons’ family are expected to the ceremony to accept the award.

Demonstrating particular passion for supporting young people's growth and aspirations, Simmons served as a trustee for California University of Pennsylvania, contributing her expertise to numerous committees to ensure that students had the resources and support necessary for academic and personal success.

The council honored her with a special proclamation at its quarterly meeting in September 2024.

Her leadership and advocacy positively impacted the local community through her commitment to health, social services, community development, historical preservation, and education.

“This award not only honors the memory of Jennie Adams Carter but also celebrates the achievements of those who follow in her footsteps,” said Dr. Jon Anderson, president of PennWest. “Their contributions enrich our campus and inspire us to strive for excellence in all that we do. 

“Gwen played an instrumental role in shaping the educational experiences of countless students. Her commitment to the growth and aspirations of young people was unwavering, and her belief that life’s greatest reward lies in benefiting others continues to inspire us all.”

The Jennie Carter Award was first presented in 2009, to Lynn Hayes-Freeland. Other winners: Aaron Walton ’68, Cynthia James ’02, Brian Johnson ’94, ’96, Shujuane Brown Martin ’01, ’03, Dwayne Marshall ’86, Shanita Carmichael ’08, Alan James ’62, Blayre Holmes Davis ’21, Paul “Larry” Lancaster ’66, ’69, Jesse McLean Jr. ’83, ’94, Geraldine Jones ’72, ’80, Erica McDill ’92, Alex Matthews ’83 and Christina Kenney ’11, ’15.