[5][6] She received a BA in speech communications before going on to a successful modeling and theatre career in the Tampa Bay area.
[5][6][7] Professional credits include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Narrator), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronnette) and Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris.
[5][6] In April 2008, Simmons made her Carnegie Hall debut performing at the New York Pops 25th Annual Spring Gala.
[8] Then in May 2008, along with Ashley Brown and Sierra Boggess, she performed at The New York Pops 25th Birthday Gala.
[9] Along with ten other select members of the current Lion King cast, Simmons performed September 15, 2008 at The White House for a State Dinner.