Andrea Watts

Andrea Watts is the director of advancement at Health by Design, a nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to advancing equitable, safe, accessible, and connected options for walking, biking, and public transit while promoting responsible land use.

In addition to her work at HbD, Andrea is a consultant and writer celebrated for her civically-conscious storytelling. She launched Watts Communications in 2023, a boutique consulting firm focused on small, project-based contracts. While no longer her primary focus, Andrea's side hustle reflects her passion for helping individuals and organizations amplify their impact through compelling narratives. Her client roster has included Ramp Fest (fundraiser for the ACLU + Flanner Farms), Feast of Lanterns, Rethink 65-70, Visit Hamilton County, Green Loop Marketing, Visit Hamilton County, Teachers’ Treasures, Kan-Kan Cinema/Indianapolis Film Project, draft creative space, and the Indiana Department of Corrections.

With more than a decade of experience in civic and nonprofit spaces, Andrea has honed her expertise in public relations, event planning, fundraising, crisis communications, social media marketing, political campaigns, strategic planning, and community engagement. Her career includes six transformative years with the City of Indianapolis, where she held key roles in the Department of Metropolitan Development, the Mayor's Office, and Indy Parks. Andrea also served as the Director of Advancement for the Kan-Kan Cinema and Indianapolis Film Project, where she led storytelling, grant writing, and fundraising initiatives. Her prior experience includes positions at WFYI, the Indiana Statehouse, and an Ohio governor’s race.

Andrea graduated from Ball State University with a degree in telecommunications, political science, gender studies, and film. This interdisciplinary foundation informs her nuanced approach to civic engagement and storytelling, equipping her to tackle complex societal challenges.

View resume & references

Writing samples:

• Indy Star Editorial: Sexual harassment is pervasive in local politics. We need bipartisan solutions.
• Indy Monthly - Arab Indianapolis
• Life in Indy - Fletcher Place Neighborhood Profile