Biography - Tara K Simpson

Education has always been the focus of Tara K. Simpson’s life. From a young age she was certain that she would be a teacher. Once earning her Bachelor’s degree in English from Salem College, Winston-Salem, NC, in 1998, she immediately began to fulfill her passion for teaching. After having the opportunity to teach all four levels of high school English, including AP Language and Literature and Theatre History (in Memphis, TN and San Antonio, TX), Professor Simpson returned to school, as a student, to pursue graduate studies. She then earned her Master’s degree in Military History from Norwich University, Northfield, VT.

Since graduating with her Master’s in 2008, Professor Simpson worked as a freelance writer, publishing numerous articles and essays for several publications including The Stars and Stripes, The Pacific Edge (Andersen AFB weekly newspaper), and ABC-CLIO’s military history projects. In addition, Professor Simpson worked as the Assistant Historian for the 36th Wing History Office, Andersen AFB, Guam. There she contributed to the Wing histories, conducted research and archive work, as well as edited weekly histories and speeches. She is working with the former 36th Wing Historian to write and publish a comprehensive history of North Field and Andersen AFB. Following a PCS to Tyndall AFB, she began volunteering at the 325th Wing History office. In 2010 Professor Simpson was selected to receive the APUS Faculty Grant Award for her to research and write about the Philippine War (1899-1902).

Professor Simpson’s interest and love of history, particularly military history, stems from her great respect for her grandparents, both World War II veterans. Much of her research and writing has been inspired by her desire to learn more about her grandmother, an Army Nurse, and grandfather, a Battle of the Bulge veteran and career Army officer. In addition, after spending three years in Guam accompanying her husband, an active duty USAF officer, Professor Simpson gained an incredible appreciation and personal attachment for the military history and current mission of the remote U.S. territory.

As an Air Force spouse and the mother of two young kiddos (one which was born halfway through her work on her Master’s), Professor Simpson understands implicitly the many demands faced by APUS students. She encourages communication as the key to great success in her class.

When she is not teaching, reading, writing, or trying to keep up with her husband, daughter, and son (and greyhound), Professor Simpson can be found trying out new recipes, running, biking, volunteering, or enjoying the surroundings at Tyndall AFB. She can be reached at ts1937@online.apus.edu or tara.simpson7@mycampus.apus.edu