Board Member

Shaniqua J. Simmons


Shaniqua is a native of Johns Island, South Carolina, a graduate of South Carolina State University, in Orangeburg, South Carolina, with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education & Sports Communication. She holds a Master of Science in Sports Administration from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and a Master of Business Administration from Strayer University. She was hired by the City of Orangeburg to serve as the Director of parks and recreation in June 2014. 

As the Director, Shaniqua is responsible for overseeing the stewardship of the City’s two commentaries, gardens and greenspace, park facilities and buildings; recreational programming and activities; parks budget management and facilities management practices. In her capacity as Director she manages numerous full-time, part-time and seasonal employees. Shaniqua believes that neighborhood parks, recreation facilities and activities are the great equalizer for all regardless of socio-economic status and that parks and greenspaces should be preserved for park visitors of today and for those of tomorrow. 

Prior to joining the City of Orangeburg, Shaniqua served as a District Manager for the largest urban park system in the United States, in Jacksonville, Florida, where she oversaw recreation programming, park planning, strategic planning, community center maintenance, departmental budget and associated department staff for three out of five districts. Shaniqua has also held positions as a Program Director for the City of North Charleston, South Carolina, and as a Facility Manager for the Parks and Recreation departments for the City of Charleston.

Shaniqua served on several professional organizations including South Carolina Recreation and Parks Association (SCRPA), American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) and the City of Orangeburg Accommodations Tax Advisory.

Shaniqua is an active volunteer within several community organizations. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, loves to go to live concerts and playing scrabble.