Each month, the Museum invites you to get to know the staff supporting our pillars to Honor, Connect, Inspire and Educate. Meet Candace, our Vice President of Advancement.

Q: What is your favorite place in the Museum and why?

A: Each exhibit alcove is extraordinary. It is impossible for me to pick a favorite area.

Q: What are three words that best describe you?

A: Genuine. Honest. Strategic.

Q: What is something that no one would believe about you?

A: Those who know me know that I enjoy international travel. A little known fact is that I love tree-top zip-lines tours and have propelled through the rainforest in Honduras and Costa Rica and have conquered the world’s longest over-water zip line, the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, in Haiti!

Q: We feature an #NVMMReads recommendation every month, what is a book that you think everyone should have on their “must-read” list?  

A: The last book that I read with ties to the Veteran community was “W.G.: The Opium-addicted Pistol Toting Preacher Who Raised the First Federal African American Union Troops” by Donna and William Burtch. I would definitely recommend it as a must-read not just for those interested in Civil War history, but for all.

Q: Do you think you would survive a zombie apocalypse? Why or why not?

A: Yes! The role I am most proud of is being a mother. I am confident that my “mama bear” instincts would kick in and I would destroy any zombie in my way.

Q: What fictional character do you want to be your best friend and why?

A: Mary Poppins – her magic carpet bag has everything we would need for any situation.

Q: If you could join any past or current music group which would you want to join and why?

A: I would join the Beatles. The Beatles are the best band of all time.

Q: What is something you enjoy doing outside of work?

A: I’m a foodie who enjoys diverse foods on all levels. That is part of the reason why I love to travel. I have favorite restaurants all over the country and must try international cuisines. On our hike in Belize to the Mayan cave of Actun Tunichil Muknal, I volunteered to try an edible rainforest treat, termites. Live termites have a sweet, nutty flavor that isn’t too bad!