Inventing a Better Future
Dr. Cephus E. Simmons, Sr. is a name synonymous with innovation, compassion and perseverance in the field of radiology. But before he became a nationally recognized inventor and educator, his journey began right here at Trident Technical College.
Growing up in Colleton County, South Carolina, as the only boy among six sisters, Simmons witnessed firsthand the sacrifices his father made as a police officer to support the family. Determined to ease that burden, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he trained as an x-ray technician. After his service, he chose Trident Tech to pursue his associate degree—a decision that became the springboard for a remarkable career.
“My time at Trident Technical College laid the foundation for everything I’ve accomplished in healthcare,” said Simmons. “As class president and a student of Radiologic Technology, I learned not only the science behind imaging but also the leadership skills that continue to guide my journey. TTC didn’t just prepare me for a career—it sparked my passion to innovate and lead in medicine.”
That education propelled him into a 30-year career in radiology, culminating in his role as Founder and CEO of SealCath, a medical device company that’s changing the way colorectal procedures are performed. His invention, the Cephus Catheter—a double-balloon colorectal catheter—has been praised for improving procedural accuracy and patient outcomes. It’s now in 18 hospitals across the U.S., and growing.
“I was performing a procedure on a young boy with a bowel obstruction, a tough case, and I couldn’t keep air in the colon with the catheter I was using. I knew we needed a better product, but I couldn’t find one anywhere,” said Simmons. “I started drawing pictures of what we needed, discovered there was nothing like it on the market, and started working through the process of developing the Cephus Catheter.”
Like many Trident Tech graduates, Simmons’ path wasn’t traditional. After earning his associate degree, he went on to complete a biology and chemistry degree at Francis Marion University, later earning a master’s in radiologic science from UNC Chapel Hill while working full-time and raising a family. He eventually earned a PhD in Global Health from Trident University International, focusing on medical innovation.
Krista Harrington, TTC's Dean of Health Sciences, taught Simmons when she served as a Clinical Instructor for the TTC Radiologic Technology program at MUSC and later had the opportunity to work alongside him.
She said, "From the beginning, Cephus demonstrated a strong drive and commitment to excellence in the field of radiology. His dedication to becoming the best professional he could always be was always evident. I am not at all surprised by his success in the field, and I am incredibly proud of all he has accomplished."
Simmons’ journey is marked by a deep sense of purpose—and a powerful partnership. He married his equal: a fellow veteran, Trident Tech alumna, and now a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force. They met while working in radiology at MUSC and have built a life grounded in faith, discipline, and education.
“My wife is a woman of faith and fierce determination—her vision inspires me to lead with integrity,” Simmons said. “My children are driven, resilient, and bold in their pursuits. Everything I do is fueled by the legacy we are building together.”
All four of their children attended Clemson University, each pursuing careers in the medical field. Three daughters—each double majors—took summer classes at Trident Tech to graduate in four years. One has just completed medical school, another is finishing her first year, and the youngest is applying to med school. Their son is pursuing a PhD in school psychology.
“I told my kids, ‘You didn’t have to fight like I did, but I still want you to have the same drive.’ And they’ve lived up to that.”
Simmons continues to give back through speaking engagements, mentoring, and conference presentations. He’s currently writing a radiology teaching book for first-year residents and plans to establish a scholarship at Trident Tech.
“TTC has my heart. It’s where it all started. I want to help the next generation of students find their path, just like I did.”
His story is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and the belief that change truly starts here.