Dress for Success Des Moines, a nonprofit that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and development tools, announced the appointment of Judy Downs as executive director. Downs started April 1. She succeeds Jody White, who will be stepping down from the position after serving part-time for 14 years. Downs brings with her over a decade of experience working with nonprofit and advocacy organizations, including the Iowa Environmental Council and the Science Center of Iowa and has served as a member of the Urbandale School Board. Downs said she is excited and honored to join the Dress for Success community. “Since its founding over a decade ago, Dress for Success Des Moines has seen significant growth. Judy brings a wealth of skills and experience to continue the legacy of our founders and propel the organization into its next era,” said JJ Severson, Dress for Success board president. “We couldn’t be more excited to have her as the leader of the organization.”