Debra A. Simpson Carr, a longtime advocate for community empowerment and student support, was recently recognized with honorary membership in the Phi Alpha Honor Society during the University of Iowa School of Social Work’s Des Moines commencement ceremony in May.
The national honor society for social work students and professionals, Phi Alpha selected Carr in recognition of her decades-long commitment to service, leadership, and social change. With a career spanning more than 40 years, Carr has made a lasting impact in education, nonprofit leadership, and youth development across Iowa and beyond.
Carr currently serves as a Student Services Coordinator for Des Moines Public Schools, where she plays a vital role in advancing an Integrated Services framework designed to support the academic, emotional, and physical needs of students. Her leadership has strengthened trauma-sensitive, culturally responsive practices throughout the district and expanded professional development opportunities for school leaders.
A proud Waterloo native, Carr is known for her passion for community building. She founded Le Chic Fashion Ensemble, a self-development troupe aimed at promoting self-esteem and leadership among young women, and was instrumental in launching the Miss Black Iowa U.S.A. Pageant. She later served as Executive Director of Miss Black U.S.A., leading international outreach efforts in Gambia focused on education and healthcare.
Her service extends nationally as well, including work as a federal grant reviewer for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and as a longtime trainer for the American Red Cross. She has been honored with several awards throughout her career, including the President’s Volunteer Service Lifetime Achievement Award and the National Association of Social Workers Lifetime Achievement Award.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Carr serves as president of the Cheatom Park Neighborhood Association and is an active member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Des Moines. She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she leads efforts in economic development and education.
The Phi Alpha Honor Society, which celebrates excellence in scholarship and social work practice, welcomed Carr as an honorary member of the University of Iowa’s Delta Nu chapter—celebrating her as a model of dedication, leadership, and lifelong service.