Samuel Simmons
Sam has over 35 years of experience as an alcohol and drug counselor and behavioral consultant, specializing in trauma-informed strategies to address addiction, violence, and trauma, with a focus on improving the lives of African American men and their families. He developed a culturally specific curriculum to engage men and boys in fostering healthy, nonviolent relationships.
Sam has earned multiple awards, including the 2007 Kirby Puckett Legacy Award, the 2014 Excellence in Fatherhood Award, and the 2018 Public Health Hero Award from Minneapolis. In 2024, NAMI Minnesota named him Professional of the Year. He co-hosts KMOJ FM’s "Voices" and leads the Black Men Healing Conference. His book, Just Sam: A Black Man’s Journey to Healing, explores trauma’s impact and paths to empowerment. He believes, “A community is as strong as the information it’s given.”