Empowering Families, Leading with Purpose… Meet Sheila Klopfenstein

Sheila Klopfenstein’s journey to becoming the new Education Lead for VIPS Indiana is anything but ordinary. From a 20-year career as a banker to training adult professionals in corporate settings, Sheila always carried a quiet but persistent dream in her heart—to work with children. Today, that dream has evolved into a passionate mission: guiding babies and toddlers who are blind or have low vision and supporting their families with care, empathy, and expert instruction.

Sheila brings the perfect blend of business and educational expertise to her role. With a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Indiana University, an Elementary Education License from St. Mary-of-the-Woods College, and a Teacher of Blind/Low Vision (TBLV) License from Indiana State University, she’s uniquely equipped to lead with both head and heart.

“I always knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Sheila shares. “Even during my time in banking, I was training adults, but something in me kept pulling toward children.” That calling led her from inclusive public school classrooms to the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ISBVI), where she taught fifth and sixth grade, earning her TBLV license along the way.

Sheila experienced a moment at ISBVI that solidified her decision to work with children with blindness or low vision while teaching a science lesson using a tuning fork in a bowl of water to illustrate sound waves. She saw the awe in her students’ faces as they felt sound for the first time. “I couldn’t hold back the tears,” she remembers. “They were begging me to teach more. I knew then—this was it.”

In October 2023, Sheila joined VIPS, stepping into the world of early intervention. While the age group was new, the calling was clear. “Teaching braille and giving access to literacy is not just about reading—it’s a civil right,” she says passionately. “To begin that journey in infancy is beyond powerful.”

As the newly announced Education Lead for VIPS Indiana, Sheila will soon begin supporting a team of more than 30 VIPS Blind/Low Vision Specialists across the state when she officially steps into her new role in July. Sheila shares that she’s eager to ensure the education team—and the families they serve—have the tools, guidance, and support they need to thrive. The creation of this role reflects VIPS’ continued growth and the organization’s commitment to strong, dedicated leadership in both Indiana and Kentucky.

“Sheila has taught me that the sky is the limit,” says Brooke Harrell, mom to Brynn, a child served by Sheila and VIPS. “She is Mama Bear—she protects and fights for her people. I knew the moment she walked through our door that I wanted her in our lives forever.”

Sheila’s days are filled with travel across Indiana (she is especially grateful for the new I-69!), meeting families where they are—both physically and emotionally. Her approach is always individualized. “We ask parents to tell us their story first. We come in with an open heart and open mind,” Sheila explains. “Sometimes the first few visits are just about listening.”

Brooke adds, “Sheila is the biggest blessing to our family. She has taught me so much—not just about CVI [Cortical Visual Impairment] and neuroplasticity—but also how to give myself grace as a momma.”

Sheila’s must-haves on the road? A Diet Coke and a good audiobook for herself. Plus, a flashlight with multiple brightness settings and a metal bowl because they are favorites of Sheila’s to use with children during early intervention visits. But more than that, she brings “a big heart and full acceptance for all people.”

And what keeps her going? “It’s the progress we see in these babies and the love from the families. They are so grateful you are there, and happy you want to support them. But when it gets heavy, I jump in the truck with my husband Brad, and we take off. VIPS is really good at supporting its team and recognizing that we need the time to recharge, not only for ourselves but so we can be there for these families.”

When asked what she wishes more people knew about children who are blind or have low vision, Sheila doesn’t hesitate: “Don’t place limits. These kids will surprise you. They are amazing. We must give them every opportunity to thrive.”

From the boardroom to the classroom, and now to living rooms across Indiana, Sheila Klopfenstein is a relentless advocate, a fierce supporter, and a guiding light for families navigating the path of raising a child with blindness or low vision.

As Brooke so perfectly puts it, “If you’re not on the Brynnie wagon, jump off—because our kids deserve the world. And with Sheila on their team, they’re getting it.”