It is not often that we can pay tribute to someone who has literally changed the world. However, remembering Penny Simkin is such an occurrence.

The world lost a treasure on April 11, 2024. Believing that women and families needed to be educated to have the best births, Penny began teaching childbirth education in 1968 in the dining room of a senior living facility. She recalled a story of a resident who chose to sit in on a few classes and then the resident shared the stories of her three births. Penny said, “She probably could not remember what she had for lunch, but she could tell very detailed stories about her births.” This stuck with Penny enough to start a study and publish a two-part series of the outcomes in the Journal: Birth. See that article here – Just Another Day in a Woman’s Life? Women’s Long-Term Perceptions of Their First Birth Experience. Part I

She worked with other like-minded professionals to start the first doula organization in the 1990s. She also worked with ICEA as a speaker and advisor to the board. In 1994, ICEA purchased Pennypress from her. She continued to support both the education and doula sides of ICEA as she was a champion for continually growing both. This made sure families were well educated and supported during and after birth. She was a jewel to ICEA.

I was privileged to be in one of the first doula trainings Penny held about 30 years ago. I was among the first birth doula trainers, and as Past President of DONA International, and now President of ICEA, I had many connections with Penny throughout those years. Penny will always be my hero and has shaped the trajectory of my life. I will miss her very much, as will we all here at ICEA. We are very thankful that she touched so many lives, including our own.

Penny may not be with us on earth anymore, but her passion, wisdom and vision remain. Penny’s spirit and legacy will continue to encourage us to keep serving families and babies. All our love and support to those grieving at this time.