Jul

Mourning the loss of our colleague, Vernon Simms

Secretary Bunch announced this morning that Vernon Simms, director of the Smithsonian’s Office of Government Relations, passed away Saturday, July 16, after a short battle with illness.

Head shot of Vernon Simms — *Vernon Simms*

Hired in March 2020, Simms was responsible for leading the Smithsonian’s efforts to promote and strengthen its relationship with Congress; the executive branch; and federal, state and local governments. Even though his Smithsonian tenure was brief, his impact was great. He brought a seasoned calm that allowed the Smithsonian to strengthen our relations with the political community. Simms reported to Julissa Marenco, Assistant Secretary for the Office of Communications and External Affairs.

With more than 30 years of executive leadership in business and local and federal government, Simms was a well-respected leader on and off Capitol Hill and across the greater Washington, D.C., and Baltimore region.

For more than two decades, Simms served as Chief of Staff to the late Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, where he oversaw a staff of more than 20 and managed the day-to-day operations of the congressional offices in Washington and in Maryland’s 7th congressional district, which encompasses much of Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Howard County.

Rep. Cummings was one of Congress’ most-respected members and Chair of the powerful House Oversight Committee. As a trusted advisor to Rep. Cummings and many congressional leaders, Simms was highly regarded by his peers, Members of Congress, and staffers alike as an effective collaborator and an inspiring leader, with a reputation for cultivating strong relationships on both sides of the aisle and finding bipartisan solutions.

Previously, Simms served as Special Assistant for Government and Community Operations for Representative Kweisi Mfume of Maryland, where he was known for creating partnerships for economic mobility and engagement in underserved local communities.

Vernon is survived by Linda Simms, his wife of more than 30 years; children Erin, Candice and Kyle; four grandchildren and countless friends and colleagues.

“I join the Smithsonian community in mourning our colleague and friend Vernon Simms,” Bunch said. “Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences go out to his family during this time.”