Education

• B.A., University of Texas, 1921
  
• M.A., University of Texas, 1922
  
• Ph.D., University of Chicago, 1934
  

Accomplishments as President

Simmons was appointed President with the support of the Missoula community, and it was during his administration that several buildings on campus were either erected or renovated. A number of talented faculty members were added, including G. P. Dahlberg, for whom Dahlberg Arena was later named, and Jeannette Rankin, who as a UM alumna served as the first U.S. congresswoman.  Simmons also restructured the academic curricula to improve the quality of education and reduce expenses.  Both the School of Music and the School of Business Administration were restructured and able to apply for accreditation during his administration.  The number of students grew to 2,851 during this time.

Landmarks Erected

• Journalism Building, 1936
  
• Chemistry/Pharmacy Building, 1938
  
• Addition to the Natural Sciences Building, 1938
  
• New Hall (Turner Hall), 1939
  

  Programs Created
  

• Departments of Bacteriology and Hygiene and Philosophy
  
• Programs in Social Welfare Studies, Pre-Nursing, Medical Technology, Wildlife Technology, and Wildlife Management