04/29/2026
Introducing our Donning of the Kente Keynote Speaker, Safiya Jafari Simmons! ✨
SJS Consultants CEO Safiya Jafari Simmons has more than 20 years of experience in communications, PR, and media relations strategy and management. A former adjunct professor in PR and public affairs at Howard University, she’s had the honor of being the spokeswoman, strategist, and providing PR counsel to a number of high-profile clients, including the late U.S. Congressman Elijah E. Cummings, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform; former DC Schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee; and former HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge, to name a few.
Mrs. Simmons is often retained to provide communications and public affairs strategy, media training, and nonprofit communications planning. Previously, Mrs. Simmons led media operations for former First Lady Michelle Obama’s inaugural United State of Women Summit. She also led media relations strategy for the Department of Education’s 2024 Nation’s Report Card release.
Mrs. Simmons previously sat on the Board of Trustees for her undergraduate alma mater, Lehigh University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. She earned a Master’s degree in Writing Studies from St. Joseph’s University and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Currently, Mrs. Simmons is Chair of the Board for Katal Center for Equity, Health & Justice and Director of Communications and Partnerships for Weave: The Social Fabric Project at the Aspen Institute.
