Shaping the Future: Rising Talents Leaving Their Mark

Black History Month is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary achievements and lasting contributions of Black individuals who have shaped our nation’s history. It is also a time honor the trailblazers whose work today is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. The Center for Community Health & Prevention is proud to recognize a handful of young talent at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and in our community who are addressing health equity and the needs of our diverse populations in meaningful ways that are sure to leave an enduring impact.

Norman Simmons, Jr.

Norman Simmons, Jr., MS, MPA, a 2008 graduate of East High School, is passionate about challenging mental health stigmas and fostering safe spaces within his community for open conversations on the subject. As a mental health first aid instructor, Simmons trains adults to recognize and respond to mental health challenges and crises. He also integrates this work into youth development, leading mental well-being workshops across Rochester to help young people understand the importance of their mental health.

“It’s in my heart to help my community heal,” shares Simmons. “I grew up in a community exposed to adverse conditions that contributed to mental health challenges.” His lived experiences drive his passion for advocacy and helping others recognize the benefits of prioritizing their well-being.   

Simmons received his master of public administration degree from SUNY Buffalo State University in 2014. In addition to being a leader in mental health, he is also a leader on the basketball court. Simmons coaches the Junior Varsity men’s basketball team at East High and is the assistant coach for the men’s Varsity team. From 2019 – 2023, he served as the director of Program & Operations for Hoop & Motivate, an organization that uses basketball as a tool to engage and mentor youth. He now supports the organization in an advisory role. He also serves on the board of The Commissary Fund, helping alleviate the burden of commissary costs for incarcerated individuals and their loved ones in New York State. Being personally impacted by mass incarceration, Simmons is proud to help expand the organization’s impact as its current Partnership Chair.

“While I celebrate Black history every day, this month allows me to elevate Black voices, acknowledge our impact, and embrace my identity unapologetically,” shares Simmons. “I also use this time to educate my community about our rich history, ensuring that our stories are accurately told and celebrated.”

Thank you, Norman, for your dedication to helping others and for sharing your story!

Deziree Garrick

Deziree Garrick, a University of Rochester (UR) senior and Wegman Scholar, is completing her bachelor’s degree in Black Studies. Last year, she was recognized as a 2024 First-Team All-Liberty athlete in weight throw and earned Second-Team All-League honors in shot put.

A graduate of the Rochester City School District’s East High School, Garrick, participated in the school’s hands-on Center for Human Athleticism and Musculoskeletal Performance and Prevention (CHAMPP) program, provided in partnership with the URMC. Being an athlete and a part of CHAMPP changed her outlook on the world as a young Black woman. “I obtained access to knowledge about nutrition and safe physical fitness,” Garrick shared. “Being a part of CHAMPP has inspired me to find ways to improve the spaces I find myself passionate about.”

Now, Garrick is developing “The Well Initiative,” a program designed to target various dimensions of wellness, including physical fitness and nutrition, as well as intellectual, emotional, spiritual, vocational, and environmental wellness. She aims to equip Rochester women with resources that promote good health, will help prevent health disparities, and “empower them to become a well of knowledge in their micro community.”

Garrick looks forward to attending the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in the fall to earn a master of divinity degree. After Candler, she plans on pursuing a PhD in either religion or Black studies. “My hope is to always use newly acquired knowledge to impact folks around me, similar to The Well Initiative,” she shared. “Decreasing the opportunity gaps that are present in Rochester has always been a passion of mine. The Well Initiative will aid in this effort.”

Thank you, Deziree, for your passion for well-being and health equity! Keep up the inspiring and impactful work!

Nyara Simmons

“Black History Month is a time to pause and reflect on the contributions of those who came before me,” shares Nyara Simmons. “I am grateful for their achievements, and I hope to continue in their footsteps, creating lasting change for those who will come after me.”

Simmons started her role as an employment navigator with the Teen Health and Success Partnership (THSP) program at URMC’s Center for Community Health & Prevention in August 2024. A graduate of Howard University in Washington, DC, Simmons is passionate about community work and health equity, particularly within urban youth education. 

“This role was the perfect opportunity to combine both passions, allowing me to play a direct part in impacting City of Rochester high school students during one of the most pivotal times in their lives,” shares Simmons.

As an employment navigator, Simmons works one-on-one with students living in the City of Rochester to help them prepare for their long-term education and career goals, acting as a liaison and support system. Whether they are navigating the college process or preparing to start their professional careers locally, she works closely with students to ensure they are on the right path.  

“I grew up in the City of Rochester and faced challenges figuring out what my future would look like,” Simmons said. “Providing students with as many experiences as possible, paired with meaningful guidance, is essential during this transitional phase of their lives.”

Simmons’ guidance, coupled with the support of their supervisors and the rest of the THSP team, helps students leave the program with confidence and the foundational skills necessary to propel their careers after graduation.

Thank you for the work you’re doing to make a difference for our youth, Nyara, and the future of our health care workforce!