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VICKI BOWEN HEWES
Vicki Bowen Hewes is a dynamic purpose-driven leader. She excels in creating inclusive cultures, intuitively driving innovation while building trusted relationships for enduring success.
Bowen Hewes' career spans over 25 years in corporate, social enterprise, and nonprofit sectors -- her influence has been recognized as a catalyst for transformative change, both nationally and internationally.
As the co-founder of Gordon Hewes, Vicki thoughtfully merged her social enterprise, Meliora Community, with the firm to further advance support for nonprofit and social enterprise leaders and their missions.
With an unwavering commitment to advancing equity, Vicki leveraged her global business acumen and passion for social change to launch the women’s empowerment movement Dress for Success Columbus in 2006. The organization has transformed the lives of thousands of women and their families, providing critical tools, resources and a sisterhood of strength to help them move forward with dignity, achieve financial freedom, and advance in work and life. The success of the mission is highlighted by its top ranking within Dress for Success Worldwide's global affiliates, and a testament to her enduring legacy. After 12 years of visionary leadership, she thoughtfully passed the baton in 2018, and leveraged her hands-on expertise to strengthen national affiliates as well as lead international empowerment conferences with Dress for Success Worldwide.
An avid champion of social justice, Vicki stepped forward as a founding task force member of BREATHE UWP in 2020, and that same year she spearheaded the launch of Fashion Forward, a social enterprise that significantly aided nonprofits in six states amidst the pandemic. In her subsequent role as CEO of Social Ventures in 2021, she successfully expanded the organization's scope to provide greater opportunities and equity for under-recognized entrepreneurs.
Her recent accomplishments, including the role of Investment Advisor for Ohio Impact Fund, and achieving both Professional Executive Coach certification and Executive Social Impact Specialization, highlight her extensive and diverse expertise. A technology enthusiast, Vicki excels in leveraging a variety of digital tools and platforms, demonstrating her proficiency in harnessing tech to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Vicki’s early achievements in the field of mixed-use Real Estate, notably as National Training & Operations Director for a publicly-owned REIT, laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Her talents in acquisition and development, associate leadership, brand positioning, and corporate social responsibility enriched a 14-state portfolio as well as international pursuits in Kuwait and Egypt. Numerous awards highlight Vicki's impact, including Women for Economic Leadership Development (WELD), National Council of Negro Women, Molina Community Champion, Bryant True Hero, DAWN Women in Leadership, Nationwide Stewardship Leader, Ohio Department of Development President’s Award, NiSource Executive for Change, 100 Unstoppable Women, Role Model x Ford Foundation and two congressional commendations, attest to her dedication to excellence and spurring innovation. She devotes time to volunteerism and several boards and committees, including COSI Center of Societal Inclusion, membership with WELD, and as continuing the BREATHE movement. Vicki resides in Columbus, Ohio, and cherishes time with her son, Davey, her husband, Ken, and their tenacious rescue terrier mix, Buck. An active social justice champion, aspiring yogi, Peloton pedaler, and avid reader, she enjoys travel, hiking, style and studying culture.
Click gallery images to view highlights from Vicki's purpose-driven leadership journey.
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EMPOWERING TOGETHER
Joi Gordon and Vicki Bowen Hewes, leaders at the forefront of innovative social change, have been collaborating to lead advancements in social impact since 2006.
Their partnership in Gordon Hewes Consulting unifies their advisory practice and brings immense strength from a fusion of diverse talents, mutual respect, and a shared dedication to elevating outcomes.
With a combined experience of over 50 years and a history of global successes, they bring a wealth of hands-on expertise. Joi and Vicki are eager to collaborate with you, offering guidance to support your impactful journey.
