Jacqueline Andrews

I attribute my success to a combination of resilience, purpose driven leadership, and an unwavering commitment to service. From early on, I understood the importance of advocacy, especially for those whose voices often go unheard. That understanding has guided my decisions, from pursuing higher education to taking on roles that challenge systems and create space for equity. I’ve also been fortunate to have mentors who believed in me, and I try to pay that forward by mentoring others. Ultimately, I lead with compassion and integrity, always striving to make a meaningful impact whether in the community, the courtroom, or the workplace

The best career advice I’ve ever received was: Don’t just do the work understand the impact. That shifted how I approached leadership and service. It reminded me that success isn’t just about checking boxes or climbing a ladder it’s about staying connected to your purpose and the people you're serving. That advice has kept me grounded through challenging roles and helped me lead with both strategy and empathy.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to ask the hard questions, lead with empathy, stay grounded in your purpose, and never underestimate the power of your voice. Social services can be challenging, but your perspective, resilience, and compassion are your greatest assets. Advocate fiercely, set boundaries, and always remember you belong in every room where decisions are made

One of the biggest challenges in social services today is navigating the growing complexity of client needs amid limited resources and systemic barriers. Professionals are often stretched thin while working within institutions that need reform themselves. However, this challenge also presents a major opportunity: to re -imagine service delivery through innovation, cross sector collaboration, and trauma informed practices. There is a growing movement to center equity, lived experience, and holistic care creating space for transformative change that not only supports vulnerable populations more effectively but also empowers the workforce driving that change

The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, compassion, and accountability. I believe in leading with honesty, treating others with empathy, and taking responsibility for my actions. These principles guide how I make decisions, build relationships, and create lasting impact in the communities I serve.