V. Anthony Simms-Howell Honored with the James P. Clingman Award for a Lifetime of Community Leaders

Congratulations to V. Anthony Simms-Howell, Dean Commissioner of the Ohio Commission on Hispanic Latino Affairs, on receiving the James P. Clingman Award for a lifetime of service advancing inclusion, civic engagement, and cross-cultural collaboration.

From founding chambers and community organizations to serving on statewide boards, his leadership embodies unity and impact. Anthony Simms-Howell received the award at the 30th Anniversary Legacy of Lights Gala of the African-American Chamber of Greater Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky, held on November 14, 2025. The Gala celebrates the visionary leaders whose dedication and service continue to uplift the Greater Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky region and beyond. 

Born in the Republic of Panama, Tony and his wife emigrated to the United States in 1968. Volunteering is an integral aspect of their lives. They dedicate their time to organizations whose policies offer opportunities to enhance the quality of life for individuals, their families, and their communities. With 50 years of experience as a community leader, Anthony has established connections between businesses, non-profit organizations, and community leaders with a diverse range of services and outreach programs. Tony was inducted into the Ohio Civil Rights Hall of Fame in 2011 and selected by the Cincinnati Bengals as the Cincinnati recipient of the NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award in 2014.  Anthony is a founding member of the African American and Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati, USA, and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC Cincinnati). Anthony has served on numerous local boards and continues to have a positive impact on our community.

Image courtesy of The African-American Chamber of Greater Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky.

Written by Lorena Mora-Mowry, host of the Latina Today Podcast.