Raymond Joseph Simon graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1966 and a Master of Science in Education degree in 1969. He later completed his educational specialist degree at the University of Arkansas.
Simon has had an active role in education beginning as a mathematics teacher at North Little Rock High School in 1966.
Simon has served in numerous administrative roles in Arkansas public education, including superintendent of Conway Public Schools. He served as director of education and later commissioner of education for the Arkansas Department of Education. He was a member of the cabinet for the governor of Arkansas, and he led initiatives in Arkansas focusing on the preparation of students in the early grades.
Simon has served as assistant secretary for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education and then as deputy secretary for the United States Department of Education.
Simon has proven to be a champion of education at all levels, perhaps most significantly in his home state of Arkansas. Simon was recognized as a UCA Distinguished Alumni Award recipient in 2006.
The honorary Doctor of Public Service degree was conferred Dec. 16, 2011.