Richard E. Simmons III received his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of the South (Sewanee) in 1976. He later studied risk management and insurance at Georgia State prior to beginning a 25-year career with Hilb, Rogal and Hamilton, a property and casualty insurance firm, where he was CEO for 10 years. Much of Simmons' life has been devoted to giving back to the community by advising businessmen and professionals. Through these experiences, he discovered a calling for teaching and public speaking. In December 2000, Simmons founded The Center for Executive Leadership (www.thecenterbham.org), a not-for-profit, faith-based ministry located in Birmingham, Alabama. When he's not spending time with his wife and three children, Simmons can be found teaching, counseling, writing or speaking to groups across the country.