APRIL SIMPKINS SHRM-CP, PHR, CDP® - April is a multi-certified HR Professional with 30 years of executive-level Human Resources experience. She is the Chief Human Resources Officer for Questco Companies, a nationwide HR services organization.

April's experience and continued study of Human Resources trends led to an invitation to The Business Journal Leadership Trust, allowing her to share her knowledge with leaders nationwide.

April is a Certified Diversity Professional (CDP)®. In 2020 April received the Unsung Hero Award from Greenville SHRM for her exemplary leadership in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She has also received awards and honors for her business acumen. Her awards include The 2020 Women In Business Achievement Award from the Charlotte Business Journal and being named one of Charlotte's 50 Most Influential Women by Mecklenburg Times.

April advocates for mental health and is an ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). She became a more visible advocate following the passing of her beloved daughter, Cheslie Kryst, who battled depression. Cheslie was an attorney, entertainment news correspondent, and Miss USA 2019.