CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — “We are not our mistakes,” began Rev. Michelle Simmons as she addressed students, faculty, and staff at Penn State Lehigh Valley. Simmons, founder and executive director of Why Not Prosper—a Philadelphia-based nonprofit organization that empowers women who are currently or formerly incarcerated — shared her powerful story of transformation and purpose.
Simmons was invited to speak by Teri Kistler, lecturer and program coordinator for Rehabilitation and Human Services at Penn State Lehigh Valley.
“Rev. Simmons is a powerful example of resilience, humble service, and unrelenting dedication,” said Kistler. “Her program provides women with a jump start — a true opportunity to rebuild their lives and succeed.”
Founded in 2001, Why Not Prosper has helped hundreds of women transition successfully from the prison system back into their communities. The organization offers programs focused on education, career development, mentoring, and healthcare, operating both inside correctional facilities and through community-based programs across Philadelphia. Simmons has also extended her mission internationally, recently launching an initiative in Ghana.
Throughout her talk, Simmons emphasized the importance of self-belief and perseverance in overcoming adversity.
“Forward movement. We have no other options,” she told the audience. “We have everything we need to make it. We are so intelligent. We are so creative.”