Story 1 of 15 | Stephanie Silvers, Dress for Success Twin Cities CEO

As we celebrate the 15th Anniversary of Dress for Success Twin Cities (DFSTC), I am filled with immense pride and gratitude. Over the past 15 years, I have had the incredible opportunity to witness and be part of countless transformations, and it brings me an enormous amount of joy to share my personal journey with you.

Fifteen years ago, I transitioned from working with unhoused adults to joining DFSTC. Reflecting on this incredible journey, I can say that the biggest highlight for me has been witnessing the impact this organization has had on women over these 15 years. I found a unique opportunity at DFSTC to witness true transformation. DFSTC is different – it offers a way to watch someone truly transform their life, even in the face of unfair systems that can tear you down.

Over the years, I have had the privilege to witness and support the journeys of the first women who walked through our doors. These women, who are now an integral part of my life, have achieved massive success, breaking the cycle of poverty and creating better futures for their families. To me, 15 years means we've served over 12,000 women, and that's over 12,000 stories. If they brought just three people with them, that's over 30,000 lives impacted. We’ve created an opportunity and an organization that puts women in the driver's seat – something I’m incredibly passionate about.

My journey to becoming CEO was not a predetermined path. I don't know if I ever started the position thinking I'd become the CEO. I enjoyed the program side and working directly with the women. However, as the organization evolved, so did my leadership. I found myself in a position where I could influence the direction and growth of DFSTC, driven by my commitment to the mission and the belief that I could scale it to new heights.

My story is a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination that define the spirit of DFSTC. My personal experiences enable me to relate to the challenges women face and my empathy fuels my drive to create meaningful change. I know how challenging it can be – I understand what it means to be at a disadvantage in our society. I wanted to be part of the change I wished to see.

As we celebrate 15 years of empowering women, I invite you to join us in this journey. Follow us as we share the stories of extraordinary women whose dedication and passion have been instrumental in transforming lives. Together, we will continue to uplift women, one story at a time, and pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.

Stay connected with us throughout 2025 as we launch our 15 Years of Empowerment campaign, where we will highlight the inspiring journeys of our partners, team members and the people who have shaped this organization.
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Cheers to 15 Years!

Stephanie Silvers
CEO, Dress for Success Twin Cities

As we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this year, we take a moment to highlight an often-overlooked truth: the fight for civil liberties has always been powered by women. From organizing marches and mobilizing communities to serving as critical strategists behind the scenes, women have played an essential role in making Dr. King’s vision a reality.
Women have been at the forefront of the fight for civil liberties throughout history, long before the 1960s and continuing today. The civil rights movement of the 20th century drew strength from their tireless efforts, and here in Minnesota, women have played a vital role in championing racial and gender equity across generations. Their work builds on a long legacy of advocacy, courage, and leadership that has shaped the fight for justice at every step.
The Women Behind the Movement

• Coretta Scott King: More than Dr. King’s wife, Coretta Scott King was a fierce advocate for justice in her own right. A talented speaker and organizer, she carried on her husband’s work after his assassination, championing racial and gender equality, as well as global peace.
• Ella Baker: Known as the “Mother of the Movement,” Baker spent decades organizing at the grassroots level, mentoring young leaders, and helping to establish the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). She believed in empowering communities to lead their own fights for justice.
• Fannie Lou Hamer: A sharecropper turned activist, Hamer co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and used her voice to challenge oppression and demand voting rights for Black Americans.
• Diane Nash: As one of the key leaders of the Freedom Rides and the SNCC, Nash was instrumental in planning and leading nonviolent campaigns for desegregation and voter registration.

These women, and countless others whose names are less well-known, embody the spirit of resilience, courage, and leadership that fueled the civil rights movement.
Minnesota’s Connection to the LegacyMinnesota has its own history of advancing civil rights, particularly through the work of women leaders:

• Nellie Stone Johnson: A Minnesota-born civil rights activist and labor organizer, Johnson was the first Black person elected to a citywide office in Minneapolis. She worked tirelessly for union rights and equal opportunities in education and employment.
• Josie R. Johnson: Known as the “First Lady of Minnesota Civil Rights,” Josie Johnson worked for decades to combat systemic racism and create a more equitable state. Her efforts include advancing fair housing laws, advocating for voting rights, and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
• The Minnesota Women’s Political Caucus: Founded in the 1970s, this organization has helped amplify the voices of women in public policy, advocating for equity in government and ensuring that civil rights remain a key focus of the state’s agenda.

Continuing the Work TodayDr. King’s legacy, and that of the women who stood beside him, reminds us of the power of collective action and the importance of lifting every voice. At [Your Organization Name], we honor their work by striving for a world where all people—regardless of gender, race, or background—have the opportunity to thrive.

​Whether through programs that empower women to overcome systemic barriers or partnerships that foster equity and inclusion, we carry forward the values of the civil rights movement by creating opportunities for those who need them most.

How You Can Honor Their Legacy:

• Learn about the women of the civil rights movement and Minnesota’s own civil rights leaders, sharing their stories widely.
• Support initiatives that champion racial and gender equity in your community.
• Mentor or empower women in your network to become leaders and changemakers.
• Advocate for policies that break down barriers for women and marginalized communities.

This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, let’s not only reflect on Dr. King’s dream but also remember the women who helped shape it—here in Minnesota and across the country. Their contributions remind us that progress is made when everyone has a seat at the table. Together, we can continue building the world they dreamed of—one where justice, opportunity, and equality are within reach for all.