Dr. Sims

Dr. Shirley Sims is an experienced leader with over 22 years of working in management and leadership roles in higher education, nonprofit, and government sectors. she has worked across various leadership circles and collaborative networks, consistently demonstrating her ability to foster meaningful connections and drive collective action. Known for her results-oriented problem-solving approach, she has successfully developed community partnerships and social impact programs that not only address immediate needs but also promote long-term sustainable change. Her commitment to collaboration and innovation has empowered diverse stakeholders to unite around common goals, creating impactful solutions that uplift individuals and strengthen the community as a whole. 

Dr. Sims remains deeply connected to the community as the founder of iTrainNow, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and young adults through enrichment programs focused on employment and training, college / career exploration, community engagement, and health and wellness initiatives. Dr. Sims dedicates herself to community service and upliftment by actively engaging in initiatives that promote social justice, education, and health. In addition to these roles, she actively serves on several nonprofit boards and mentors numerous individuals in her community.

Dr. Sims earned her Ed.D. in Leadership and Innovation from St. Thomas University, a Master of Public Administration from Troy University, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of South Florida. She is a Certified John Maxwell Leadership Trainer and Coach and a graduate of the Clark Atlanta University-HBCU Executive Leadership Institute.

Dr. Sims is also a past honoree of 2017 Tampa Bay Award winning business owner, 2020 Community Heroes Awardee, 2021 Excellence in Education Awardee, and 2023 Legacy South Florida Women In Business Awardee, 2024 the Top 50 Women Chiefs  of Staff of 2024.