President Donald Trump has announced that Wellspring Living's Director of Women's Residential Services Andrea Hipwell has been appointed to serve on the U.S. Advisory Council on Human Trafficking. This council will advise administration on anti-trafficking policies.

Andrea first met Ivanka Trump and White House officials in January when Governor and First Lady Kemp hosted a visit showcasing Georgia's commitment to rescuing and restoring lives of sex trafficking survivors. Andrea participated in a roundtable discussion and spoke on the importance of survivor leadership.

Andrea is a graduate of what is now our Women's Residential Program (WRP) and started working at the Duluth Treasures retail store in 2009. In 2011, she became a direct care coach at WRP and spent the next three years in that role. After that, Andrea became the lead coach and in 2014 became the program coordinator. She served participants in that capacity for five years before becoming the director of women's residential services in 2019.

"It has been amazing to watch and support Andrea's journey over the last decade. She is a dedicated team player, determined leader and tireless advocate for survivors. I know her experience, skills and knowledge will be a tremendous asset to the Council," said Wellspring Living Founder and Executive Director Mary Frances Bowley.

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr joined Ivanka Trump on a Twitter post congratulating Andrea on her appointment stating, "Andrea Hipwell is an excellent choice to help lead national efforts against #HumanTrafficking and ensure the voices of survivors are well represented. Congratulations Andrea, you make Georgia proud!"