BEDFORD– Dr. Andrea Rope takes the helm at Jim I Sowder’s Practice of Optometry with a new name change to Rope Optometry, but the same great doctors and the same great care will remain. Established in 1948 by the esteemed Dr. Robert E. Sawyer, this practice has been a cornerstone of optometric care for over 75 years. It stands as a testament to dedication, excellence, and community service.
In 1983, Dr. Sowders took over the reins, continuing the tradition of excellence set forth by his predecessor. Now, in 2024, a new chapter unfolds as Dr. Andrea Rope assumes ownership, carrying forward the legacy of dedication and expertise. Dr. Rope’s journey to leadership within the practice is one marked by a deep sense of duty and a passion for serving others. A graduate of the esteemed Indiana University School of Optometry, Dr. Rope honed her skills and expertise over the last 15 years as an Optometrist in the Air Force (8 years) and then as an associate under the mentorship of Dr. Sowders for 7 years. During this time, she gained invaluable clinical experience and cultivated a profound appreciation for the practice’s mission and values. With the transition of ownership in January 2024, Dr. Rope brings with her a wealth of experience and a vision for the future. Her dedication to advancing the field of optometry is evident in her status as a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, being on the IU Optometry School faculty as a Clinical Consultant, and her Master’s degree in Human Nutrition & Functional Medicine. Dr. Rope’s commitment to excellence is matched only by her compassion for her patients, whom she sees as partners in their journey toward optimal eye health.
As Dr. Sowders passes the torch to Dr. Rope, he does so with a legacy of achievement and service that is second to none. A recipient of both the Regional and National “People’s First” awards, The Boys and Girls Club’s of Indiana Hall of Fame, the BNL High School Wall of Fame, and Duke Energy’s “Make a Difference” award, Dr. Sowders’ dedication to his patients and community has been recognized time and again. His involvement in various charitable organizations speaks to his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Looking ahead, both Dr. Sowders and Dr. Rope are committed to ensuring the continued success and growth of the practice. The name has changed to Rope Optometry, symbolizing the transition to a new era, while honoring the practice’s rich history, yet amidst the changes, one thing remains constant: a steadfast commitment to providing “World class eye care, with compassion, for Southern Indiana.” Dr. Sowders will still be seeing patients on Mondays and Tuesdays, allowing him to continue to provide care for his beloved patients while allowing more time with his family and community passions. Dr. Rope is poised to lead the practice into the future with enthusiasm and dedication. Together, they are determined to ensure that the legacy of Dr. Sawyer and Dr. Sowders’ Practice of Optometry endures for generations to come, with the hope of celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2048 as a beacon of excellence in eye care and community service.
