Hazel Simmons

Hazel Simmons, Ph.D., is a professor of psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she focuses on adolescent behavior and mental health. She also heads the Youth Development Lab. Beyond her academic pursuits, Hazel is an active member of her community and a proud parent of two teenagers. On weekends, you can often find her volunteering at the local youth center in Santa Monica. If you're interested in following her work or reading more about her insights, you can connect with her on Twitter or explore her blog posts on The Teen Mind website.

It's now early autumn, and as the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, Hazel finds herself reflecting on the growth of her students and children alike. Her latest project involves organizing a series of workshops aimed at fostering resilience among young people facing challenges in their personal lives. These workshops are set to take place at UCLA’s campus over the next few months, bringing together experts in psychology, education, and social work to provide support and guidance for adolescents.

Santa Monica, with its sunny skies and bustling boardwalk, provides a lively backdrop for Hazel's work. She enjoys taking advantage of the city's vibrant atmosphere to encourage her students and children to engage with the community. Recently, Hazel arranged a beach cleanup event that not only taught responsibility but also brought the community closer together. Through her efforts, Hazel hopes to inspire a generation of young adults who are both aware of their surroundings and committed to making a positive impact.