Derick Simmons

Graduate Assistant
derick.simmons@slu.edu
phone: (314) 977-2231

Role in the Reinert Center

As a graduate assistant in the Center, Derick assists in the administration of the Certificate in University Teaching Skills program. He also conducts research on teaching and learning topics; consults with graduate students about teaching; and assists Center staff with design, implementation, and assessment of programs.

Areas of Expertise

• Organize and facilitate orientation sessions for new teaching assistants.
• Conduct mid-semester focus groups with students upon instructor request.
• Conduct confidential teaching consultations with graduate student instructors.
• Organize and contribute to Center publications and web-based resources.
• Conduct research on teaching and learning.
• Facilitate online seminars for Certificate program.
• Administer Certificate in University Teaching Skills program.

Biographical Information

Derick is a PhD student in the Department of Health Management & Policy, researching topics related to digital health innovation, provider burnout, and patient psychological safety. Prior to his doctoral work, Derick led strategy consulting engagements at Rock Health for enterprise clients and growth-stage startups. He also served as a transformation consultant at SSM Health, advising senior executives on digital partnerships and new ventures. Derick earned a Master of Health Administration from Cornell University where he was a Roger Battistella Fellow. Before his MHA, he worked at a healthcare venture capital firm, received a B.S. in Organizational Behavior from Brigham Young University, and completed two years of volunteer mission service in Romania and Moldova.