Lisa Simmons

Director, Maximus Foundation

Lisa Simmons is a distinguished leader in human services program operations. She brings nearly 30 years of expertise in designing and implementing transformative programs aimed at enhancing the lives of children, families, and vulnerable populations worldwide. Her work includes leading initiatives in the United States, Italy, Singapore, South Korea, and Sweden.

Since joining Maximus in 1996, Lisa has played a pivotal role in advising private organizations and government agencies on developing and administering effective human services public policy. As the head of the eastern region of our Human Services business, she oversees over 20 contracts supported by a dedicated team of over 800 professionals, ensuring that essential safety-net services — including TANF, SNAP, child support, childcare, and medical support — are accessible to those in need.

Lisa is an influential Maximus Foundation Board of Directors member, shaping the organization’s charitable strategies and enhancing community engagement. In addition, she served on the Maximus Italy Board of Directors, where she led client relationship management and spearheaded business development initiatives.

A passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, she is the executive sponsor of our Black Alliance Employee Resource Group and actively participates in our DE&I council and Historically Black Colleges and Universities Pathways Committee. Her commitment to government relations is evident through her involvement in special projects fostering collaboration and policy development.

Deeply committed to making a difference in her community, Lisa serves on the boards of directors for the Cancer Support Center and The Arc Prince George’s County (Maryland). In both roles, she advocates for the needs of individuals and families facing health- and disability-related challenges.

Her dedication extends to her community engagements as she represents Maximus at the Congressional Black Caucus Institute and the National Black Caucus of State Legislatures. She is the proud President of the National Council of Negro Women, D.C. Section Two, and a devoted member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for 30 years.

Lisa holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master's degree in information systems from Bowie State University.