After enduring over a decade of domestic violence, Andrea Sims made the courageous decision to stand up against the abuse and walk away, determined to build a better future for herself and her four children. As a single parent, she knew she needed support to pursue her dreams, and that’s when a referral from Ivy Tech Community College led her to Dress for Success.
Immersing herself in everything Dress for Success offered, she attended events regularly, joined the Professional Women’s Group (PWG), and started building connections that would become influential to her success. Dress for Success not only provided her with professional attire that boosted her confidence but also empowered her to step out of her shell. Once a quiet observer, she found her voice and now uses it to speak out against domestic violence, sharing her story to inspire others.
At 50, she graduated from Ivy Tech. Seven years later, Andrea is close to earning her Bachelor’s degree in Project Management Leadership. But her ambitions don’t stop there—she plans to pursue further education in music ministry, cosmetology, and nonprofit management. Her journey has also included roles in driving trucks, management, building homes for Habitat for Humanity, and establishing daycare centers and food pantries. She has goals to complete her Bachelor’s, obtain a Master’s degree, and then pursue a Doctorate.
Her message to others—including her children—is simple: write down your goals, work hard, and believe in yourself. Through Dress for Success, she found not just a sense of fashion but also a sense of self. Today, she continues to explore her passions in fashion, comedy, dancing, singing, and more. And she is confident in her ability to achieve whatever she sets her mind to.
The Professional Women’s Group (PWG) is an ongoing program hosted by Dress For Success Indy, offered to help employed women develop skills and knowledge that can propel them to a sustainable career. Learn more about PWG here.
