10 Within 10 Recognition

2025 10 Within 10: Jasmine Simmons, Au.D.

2020, The Herbert H. and Grace. A Dow College of Health Professions, Audiology 
Doctor of Audiology, Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology

As a clinical audiologist and published children’s author, Jasmine uses her personal and professional experiences to advocate for kids with disabilities. Her debut picture books — including “Extraordinary Jordyn and Her Bionic Ears” — celebrate joy, representation and empowerment for young readers who rarely see themselves reflected in stories.

As a deafblind audiologist practicing in Jacksonville, Florida, Jasmine works every day to improve communication and connection for others. Her work is rooted in a strong clinical foundation, developed through hands-on experiences and faculty mentorship at CMU.

She continues to stay connected to the university through alumni events and collaborations, and she credits CMU for shaping the compassionate, creative professional she is today. “Being a CMU Chippewa means excellence, compassion and lifelong learning,” she says. “I carry those values with me every day.”

In addition to her Doctor of Audiology degree in audiology and speech-language pathology from CMU, Jasmine holds a bachelor's in communication disorders from the University of Akron.

We asked our 10 Within 10 honorees to reflect on their time at Central, share some wisdom with current students, and talk about what it means to them to be a CMU Chippewa.

What has been your coolest moment since graduation? My coolest moment since graduation has been releasing my two children’s books. As a deafblind audiologist and advocate, it means the world to create stories that reflect kids with disabilities in a joyful, empowering light. Seeing “Extraordinary Jordyn and Her Bionic Ears” come to life — and knowing it’s helping children feel seen — has been one of the most meaningful and exciting achievements of my career so far.

What is your fondest memory of CMU? Spending time at the College of Health Professions building, studying and laughing with my classmates. That building holds so many memories — it was beautiful, comforting and sometimes terrifying during finals! When I think of CMU, I picture those long study sessions, shared snacks, and moments of both stress and joy that helped shape who I am today.

Do you have any advice for students coming to CMU? Keep an open mind. Try new things — explore both on campus and off. Join clubs that interest you, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Most importantly: network. Building relationships with your peers and professors can take you far. I graduated over five years ago, and I’m still connected to some of my professors — they were incredible mentors, and I don’t plan on letting those connections go.

What advice would you give to new graduates? Earlier, I mentioned the importance of networking — getting involved on campus and building strong relationships with professors. Those connections can last well beyond graduation. Keep nurturing those relationships. Mentors can help open doors and connect you with opportunities. And never burn bridges. Even if you don’t plan on returning to a job or school, always leave on good terms. You never know when those paths might cross again.

What has your work life taught you? You can always get creative with your degree. Just because you studied one thing doesn’t mean you’re boxed into one path. If you find yourself in a job that doesn’t align with your passion, that’s OK. You’re allowed to pivot. Surround yourself with people who align with your vision. Connect, collaborate and brainstorm. Sometimes the best ideas — and opportunities — come from conversations. Life is too short to stay stuck in something that doesn’t light you up.

Why should CMU Chippewas dedicate their time and give back to the university? Because you never know the impact you might have. Giving back — whether it's your time, knowledge or support — might change the course of just one person's journey. And that one person? They might go on to inspire or help someone else. All it takes is one moment, one connection, one act of generosity to start a ripple effect. As a Chippewa, you’re part of a legacy — and giving back helps that legacy grow.

What has being involved with CMU after graduation meant to you? It’s been incredibly rewarding. Staying connected through alumni events, webinars and collaborations has reminded me just how strong the CMU community really is. Every time I get to share my journey or pour into current students, it feels like I’m giving back to a place that helped shape who I am today. Being involved post-graduation has been a full-circle experience — and I’m proud to still be a part of the CMU Chippewa family.

What connections have you made through CMU? Some of the most meaningful connections I’ve made came from my time at CMU. My professors have been incredible mentors — even after graduation — and I still keep in touch with many of them. My classmates have also become lifelong friends and professional peers. Those relationships have truly shaped both my personal and career journey.

What people or experiences at CMU helped you succeed? Definitely my professors and the hands-on clinical experiences. They played a huge role in shaping who I am today — both as a person and as a clinician. I’m absolutely honored to be made at CMU. I still brag about the program any chance I get and always recommend it to anyone interested in audiology. It truly gave me a strong foundation and a community I’m proud to be part of.

What does being a CMU Chippewa mean to you? It means being shaped into the clinician I am today. CMU gave me a strong foundation in audiology through hands-on experiences, supportive professors and a program that truly cared about real-world preparation. Being a CMU Chippewa isn’t just about pride — it’s about excellence, compassion and lifelong learning. I carry those values with me every day as an audiologist.