Tuesday, March 15, 2016

Grace Simkins, a life well-lived

Grace Simkins of Cedar City, might just hold the distinction of being the oldest living* member of the SUU Alumni Association, having celebrated her 107th birthday this past November.

Her SUU journey began in 1958 at the age of 50, when she enrolled at SUU to renew her teaching certificate.

“Going back to school as old as I was, it made me feel like I had a future,” Simkins said. “It was like being young all over again.”

Simkins began her teaching career at an elementary school in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she experienced first-hand racial integration. While public perception at the time highlighted differences, she found none and loved her teaching career. 

What is her secret to a long life? She credits a loving family, devotion to religion, healthy diet and most important, plenty of laughter. 

Grace passed away March 7, 2016, before this spotlight could be published in the SUU In View Alumni Magazine. 

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