
Connecting Minds, Building Futures
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Connecting Minds, Building Futures
Simeon Career Academy was named after teacher, administrator and specialist in Vocational Education, Neal Ferdinand Simeon. Mr. Simeon was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 30, 1916 and was of Creole descent. His family was from New Orleans; his father a cigar maker. He had two sisters and three brothers; Lillian, Ethel, Omer, Albert and Leo. Neal F. Simeon married Helen and to this union was born daughter Sharon A. Simeon.
Mr. Simeon graduated from Doolittle Elementary School and went on to graduate from Wendell Phillips High School in 1934 where he was football captain and valedictorian.
Mr. Simeon won an academic scholarship to Northwestern University, but instead enrolled at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) where he starred in track and boxing. While an undergrad, he was the IIT light heavyweight boxing champion and competed in the Golden Gloves. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from IIT in 1938 and was elected to Pi Tau Sigma, an honorary Mechanical Engineering fraternity.
Following graduation, he briefly played semi-pro football and worked in the machine tool and printing supply industries where he was a tool designer. He was also a licensed airplane pilot and was in one of the first groups to learn flying under a federal government program. He held a ground instructor’s license and taught aviation mechanics at Tuskegee [Ala.] Institute.
In 1945 he entered the Navy and served two years as a seaman. While in the Navy, he was a Golden Gloves boxer. He received his Masters in Education from Northwestern University in 1950.
His career as an educator began when he became a teacher at Wendell Phillips Evening High School. A short time later, he became a full time machine shop teacher at Dunbar Vocational High School where he successively served as Administrator, Placement Counselor, Assistant Principal, and as Director of Special Projects in Vocational Education. His last position was as Director of Vocational Education and Guidance Centers for the Chicago Board of Education. He was then the highest paid African American employee at the Board.
In 1962, Neal F. Simeon was called upon by President Kennedy to represent the United States at the International Trade Fair in Lagos, Nigeria. He was given a special leave of absence to supervise the educational and training aspects of the United States Exhibit of New Tools, New Skills, and New Markets.
Mr. Simeon’s interest in the vocational training of Chicago’s youth was evident to all who observed his tireless devotion to his work. He was vitally concerned with the special problems in the area of vocational education. He was eminently qualified to assume the directorship of such a dynamic program of preparing the city’s youth for the forthcoming manpower requirements of our changing economy.
At the age of 46, Neal F. Simeon died on August 28, 1963 at Wesley Memorial hospital in Chicago, Illinois.
Information gathered by the Simeon Alumni Association from the SCA archives, Sharon A. Simeon and a 1963 Chicago Tribune Newspaper article

The Simeon Alumni Association (SAA) serves as the official alumni association for Neal F. Simeon Career Academy, encompassing all graduates under both its current and former names.
The Simeon Alumni Association was established in 1989 by former football players of Simeon Career Academy to support the school. In 1992, the Neal F. Simeon Vocational High School Alumni Association was created with a focus similar to its current mission. The association aims to bring alumni together to improve the academic and social experiences of students at Neal F. Simeon Career Academy, provide scholarships and mentoring, preserve the history of Simeon, and maintain relationships among graduates.
In 2005, our name was changed to the Simeon Alumni Association to represent Simeon Career Academy, under both its current and former names. Membership is open to all graduates as well as individuals who have completed at least one full academic year at the school. We are an inclusive organization and welcome participation from all eligible members
In December 2006, the Association was incorporated in Illinois as a not-for-profit corporation. An application for recognition of exemption under Section 501(c)(3) was approved by the IRS on November 20, 2007. As of this date, the IRS determined that the Association is a publicly supported organization, allowing all contributions to the Association and Scholarship Fund to be tax-deductible.
Joining Simeon Alumni Association as a member means becoming part of a community that is dedicated to making a difference. Members receive exclusive updates, invitations to events, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. We welcome you to be a part of our family and work together to create a better future for everyone.
The pride many alumni feel about having attended their alma mater results in them wanting to give back to current students in ways that can help them succeed during school and after graduation. Our robust alumni association supports current students by contributing donations, assisting with fundraisers for scholarships, academic programs, and providing mentorship opportunities.

The mission of Simeon Alumni Association (SAA), which was incorporated in December 2006, to promote the overall development of student support systems engaging in proactive campaigns and functional collaborations with school personnel, business and community organizations creating viable and constructive opportunities which will contribute to the student's scholastic and social achievement.
The organization is registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

The SAA was established to improve and enhance the academic and social experiences of both current students and graduates of Neal F. Simeon Career Academy (hereafter referred to as “Simeon”). We uphold transparency in all facets of our operations, assist graduates in maintaining connections with Simeon by offering a network of peers and mentors. We secure funds to support the institution and its students, as well as provide scholarships. Additionally, we organize events, social gatherings, and reunions and membership drives to cultivate a sense of community among alumni. Moreover, we endeavor to elevate the profile of the high school by showcasing its accomplishments and attracting prospective students.
"Reaching Back to Move Forward"

Arnold Coleman, Sr., C/O 1980
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc

Vernessa Barnes, C/O 1978
Standing Committees
1978 Class Coordinator

Tamela Jaco-Hardy, C/O 1984
Standing Committees
2025-2027 Public Relations Chairperson
2023-2026 Cookout Chairperson
1984 Class Coordinator

LaShana Sims, C/O 1990
Standing Committees
Public Relations Committee
2025 Cookout Co-Chair

Tynetta Williams, C/O 2001
Standing Committees
2001 Class Coordinator
2025-2027 Public Relations Administrator
2023-2026 Cookout Co-Chair

Tyreesha Owens, C/O 2014
Standing Committees
2014 Class Coordinator
2026 Cookout Committee
2025-2027 Public Relations Moderator
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Make a statement this year with our eye-catching graphic t-shirts. Featuring bold, iconic, and original designs by Tomarrio Minor, Class of 2005, these tees are sure to spark conversations. Available in adult sizes ranging from Small to 5X, and in four vibrant colors: White, Royal Blue, Athletic Gold, and Classic Black. It is the perfect way to express your unique style at the 18th Annual Cookout this year.
Gildan, 100% Pre-shrunk Cotton, Seamless collar, taped neck and shoulders. Double needled sleeves and bottom hem.
(Vacant) Chairperson
(Vacant) Co-Chair
Brian Smith, Chairperson
(Vacant) Co-Chair
Arnold Coleman, Sr., Chairperson
(Vacant), Co-Chair
Vacant-Chairperson
Vacant, Co-Chair
Tamela Jaco-Hardy, Chairperson
Tynetta Williams, Co-Chair
Tamela Jaco-Hardy, Chairperson
Lashana Sims, Liaison
Tynetta Williams, Social Media Admin
Lashana Sims, Liaison
Vacant-Co-Chair
Lora Jette, Chairperson
Brian Smith, Co-Chair

Join the SAA Membership Committee and help lead the work that builds engagement, strengthens our alumni community, and supports the mission of the Simeon Alumni Association. Your commitment ensures our membership remains active, informed, and connected..

The SAA Mentoring & Education Committee welcomes alumni who are committed to advancing student achievement, strengthening academic pathways, and providing mentorship rooted in the Simeon legacy. Your leadership helps build opportunities that prepare our students for life beyond graduation.

Join the SAA Community Projects Committee and help lead meaningful service initiatives that uplift our students, families, and surrounding neighborhoods. Your involvement strengthens the bond between Simeon alumni and the community we proudly serve.

Join the SAA Alumni Class Coordinators team and help strengthen communication, unity, and engagement across your graduating class. Your leadership ensures alumni stay connected and informed throughout the year.

The SAA Fundraising Committee welcomes alumni who are passionate about building financial support for our mission. Your efforts help sustain scholarships, legacy events, and community outreach.

Join the SAA Scholarship Committee and help guide a fair, transparent, and student‑centered scholarship process. Your leadership supports academic excellence and ensures deserving Simeon seniors receive meaningful opportunities for their future.

The SAA provides educational support and resources to the Simeon community. Each year, the scholarship committee, members at large, and private donors associated with SAA provide student scholarships, up to $30k, to students of Simeon Career Academy for pursuing education at universities, 2-year colleges, and trade schools.
1st Lifetime Member
Thank you for your enduring commitment to our community.
Thank you for your lasting commitment to our community.
2025-26 Scholarship Application – Apply for the annual SAA Scholarship.
Volunteer/Committee Sign‑Up Form – Join a committee or support an event.
2026 Cookout Vendor Registration Form – Register as a vendor for SAA events.
Membership Update Form – Update your alumni contact information.
Death Resolution Request Form (pdf)
DownloadAnnual dues are paid once a year to maintain membership and continued access to their alma mater's resources and community.
A lifetime SAA membership allows alumni to join our school's alumni association with a one-time payment, granting them access to exclusive events, resources, and networking opportunities for life.
Every contribution to the Simeon Alumni Association Scholarship Fund helps us uplift the next generation of Wolverines—students with promise, passion, and purpose. Your support fuels dreams, opens doors, and builds a legacy of opportunity.Whether you're an alum, a community partner, or a proud supporter, we invite you to make a difference. No gift is too small—every dollar helps us reach one more student, one more goal, one more future.Let's create a culture of giving and create a more inclusive environment.
Contact us at Publicrelations@simeonalumniassoc.org for assistance.
The Simeon Alumni Association connects graduates, supports current students, and strengthens the Wolverine legacy through scholarships, mentoring, community projects, and alumni engagement. Our committees and Class Coordinators work together to uplift Simeon Career Academy and keep our alumni network active, informed, and united.
Alumni can get involved by joining a committee, supporting student programs, participating in community projects, attending meetings and events, or contributing through membership and donations. Whether you volunteer your time, share your expertise, or help fund scholarships and outreach, every level of involvement strengthens the Simeon community and keeps our alumni network active and connected.
The Simeon Alumni Association provides an array of services and programs, which include mentoring and educational initiatives, school scholarships, fundraising events, annual coat drives, ministry council activities, and community projects. For further details, please visit our website.
The SAA does not maintain in‑person office hours and does not have a facility available for event or space rental. All Association activities are conducted through our committees, scheduled meetings, and official online communication channels.
The Simeon Alumni Association operates under the leadership of its Board of Directors, which holds full legal and fiduciary responsibility for the organization. The Board oversees all committees, financial stewardship, scholarship administration, and compliance with state and federal nonprofit regulations. Executive officers and standing committees carry out day‑to‑day work, while the Board ensures transparency, ethical conduct, and alignment with SAA’s mission to support students, alumni, and the Simeon community.
The Simeon Alumni Association is treated by the State of Illinois as:
• An independent Illinois not‑for‑profit corporation
• Responsible for its own filings and good‑standing status
• Not legally tied to any other Illinois corporation
The Simeon Alumni Association is an IRS‑recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization (EIN 61‑1531706), and donations are tax‑deductible.
We love our alums, so feel free to visit our social media outlets.
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Simeon Alumni Association
P.O. Box 20923, Chicago, IL 60620
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