Candace Grant
Candace Grant is a cultural arts advocate and retired special educator who has dedicated her career to uplifting others through education and the arts. After earning her M.Ed. in Special Education from Concordia University–Portland, she spent more than 20 years teaching math, reading, and writing to students with emotional, behavioral, and cognitive disabilities. Known for her creative, evidence-based teaching strategies, Candace made learning accessible and engaging, with her co-taught classes serving as exemplars across schools and her conference presentations recognized for advancing best practices in special education.
Following her retirement from education, Candace discovered the powerful artistry of Oglala Lakota creators on the Pine Ridge Reservation and founded Lakota Arts and Crafts Enterprise. In this role, she works directly with artists to bring their work to a national stage, ensuring that their voices, traditions, and cultural heritage are honored and shared. Today, Lakota artistry is featured in the gift shops of Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain National Park, History Colorado, and beyond—helping create sustainable market access for Native artists.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Candace is committed to service and community. She has volunteered with Boulder County Therapy Dogs, bringing comfort to patients alongside her therapy dog, and has served on the Douglas County Historic Preservation Board, promoting the awareness and protection of local history. Whether in the classroom, through cultural advocacy, or in her community work, Candace’s mission has always been to create meaningful connections and expand opportunities for others to thrive.
• Secondary Social Studies
• Mathematics Teacher
• Special Education Teacher, Secondary School
• Concordia Portland Alumni & Friends -M.Ed
• Stanford University
• University of Northern Colorado -SPED
• Regis University
• Metropolitan State University of Denver
• University of Colorado Boulder
• Oakland University - BSEd SS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to using creativity to persevere and overcome challenges, driven by a love of solving problems, collaborating with others, and staying focused on purpose.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received wasn’t really advice—it was a powerful lesson: when I made a mistake and someone forgave me, I learned the value of humility, accountability, and how compassion fosters growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in yourself and your abilities. When you fail, see it as an opportunity to learn and grow stronger.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The challenges of fairly supporting Native American artists, finding new markets, and balancing retailer prices are also opportunities to innovate, build partnerships, and elevate Indigenous art in new spaces.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Curiosity, creativity, and collaboration guide my work, and I’m passionate about helping Native American artists grow and share their talents with the world.
