Shaundra Arlevia Barnes Simmons was born on June 17, 1959 to loving parents, Elouise Rigsby Barnes and Edward Allen Barnes in Houston, TX.  Shaundra was a lifelong member of Trinity United Methodist Church.  Shaundra accepted Christ at a young age and remained steadfast in her faith until the end…  She attended Houston Independent School District schools, graduating from Jack Yates Sr. High School in June 1977.  After graduating from high school, Shaundra entered Texas Southern University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism, May 1982 and a Master of Science in Human Services and Consumer Sciences, May 2002.   Upon graduation, she enjoyed working with agencies that focused and helped children including Houston Child Guidance Center, Neighborhood Centers, Inc. and Collaborative for Children.

While attending Texas Southern University, Shaundra met the love of her life, Bertrand Lloyd Simmons, from Nacogdoches, Texas.  On June 18, 1983, she had a fairytale wedding surrounded by family and friends.  To this union, Shaundra gave birth to her first child, a baby girl named Lauren Ashley Simmons.   Six years later, she gave birth to her second child, a baby boy named Bertrand Lance Simmons.

She was not only a great student but she was actively involved in extracurricular activities and organizations.   In high school, she earned her cosmetology license and was Majorette for the Jack Yates Marching Band.   Shaundra was famous for her high leg kicks.   She was the president of the Michael Jackson Fan Club of Houston.  While attending Texas Southern University, Shaundra was Ms. Senior.   Shaundra became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Delta Gamma Chapter Fall 1979.

Shaundra’s lifetime commitment of service to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. continued through Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (HMAC) upon her graduation.   As a member of HMAC, she served the chapter in various roles including chapter president (1997-1999).   In addition, she served as the Chair, National Protocol Committee (2000-2004) and was a current member of the, National Ritual and Ceremonies Committee.

Children Literacy was her passion.  She dedicated her life to the advancement of literacy for Children in the Houston area.   The Shaundra Simmons Foundation is dedicated to the prevention and early detection of Colon Cancer.  It is also dedicated to improvement of Children’s Literacy.