Candace Cunningham is a Washington, D.C. native, educator, curator, and lifestyle journalist with a strong commitment to community impact and service. A proud graduate of the D.C. Public School System and School Without Walls, she began her career in education at the Washington Literacy Center, where she taught both early childhood and adult learners. Her professional journey has included roles in community organizing, nonprofit leadership, and school communications, including her time as Director of External Relations at E.L. Haynes Public Charter School.

In addition to her role as Board Chair of the Washington Literacy Center, Candace is the founder and Head Curator of The Lily, a boutique art gallery and event space in Columbia Heights. The Lily serves as a creative venue for uplifting the community, hosting fundraisers, and extending the reach of organizations like WLC through storytelling, collaboration, and artistic expression.

Candace holds a master’s degree in education from American University and a certification in adult education from the University of the District of Columbia. She continues to champion education, creative engagement, and inclusive community-building