CRIS Leaders in Welcome | Ric Simmons

Legal scholar, author and professor Ric Simmons currently serves as the Associate Dean for Faculty and Intellectual Life at Moritz College of Law at The Ohio State University.  He has also served on CRIS’ Board of Directors since 2018. 

What first drew you to CRIS, and why did you decide to join the board?

“I was aware of CRIS’ work for many years before I joined, and I have always thought they did important work for underserved communities.  There are not a lot of other local organizations that provide such holistic support to refugees and immigrant families.”

What unique perspective or skill set do you bring to the table to help CRIS thrive?

“As a lawyer and law professor, I help with some of the legal questions that CRIS deals with and (along with the other board members) help to think about longer-term strategic questions for the organization.”

Name something that has surprised you or that you have learned since becoming involved with CRIS.

“A pleasant surprise has been the support that CRIS gets from so many members of the Columbus community–from local politicians to large and small businesses, to the thousands of individual volunteers who help in countless ways.  It shows how welcoming and caring this city is to newcomers.”

When you aren't working or supporting CRIS, how do you enjoy spending your summer days?

“I enjoy biking, reading, playing the piano, and traveling.”