Candice Knowles Shelton
Candice (Knowles) Shelton is a dynamic leader, minister, and advocate dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through strategic human resource initiatives, community engagement, and faith-driven service. As the founder of You Matter To Me, a 501(c)(3) organization, she has spent over seven years championing diversity, equity, and inclusion; creating meaningful opportunities for underrepresented communities and building bridges between local communities and government entities. Candice’s leadership is grounded in empathy, advocacy, and strategic insight, reflecting her belief that true progress is achieved through collaboration and compassion.
In addition to her nonprofit work, Candice brings extensive expertise in human resources and talent acquisition through her ownership of CrestPoint Group & HR Associates and Shelton Solutions, LLC. Across these organizations, she has helped build strong operational foundations, foster inclusive workplace cultures, and connect individuals with fulfilling career opportunities. Her leadership style is defined by integrity, empathy, and empowerment; ensuring every person she leads feels seen, valued, and supported.
Candice earned her Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences from the University of Phoenix, where she cultivated a passion for understanding people and helping them thrive. Beyond her professional pursuits, she serves as a minister, First Lady, chaplain, and CDF Ambassador, continuing her lifelong mission to inspire growth and purpose in others.
Guided by faith and fueled by service, Candice embodies the belief that leadership is not just about influence, it’s about impact. Through every role she holds, she remains committed to unlocking potential, transforming lives, and empowering others to walk boldly in their purpose.
• Decision Maker - Personal Finance
• Reflective Communicator
• Intentional Problem Solver
• Reflective Problem Solver
• President's List
• University of Phoenix- B.S.
• President's List
• Philo
• NAACP
• SHRM
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God’s grace, my parents’ example, and every challenge that has strengthened my character. My mother’s perseverance has been my greatest inspiration. She paused her education to raise her children but later returned to earn an Associate’s degree in Child Development, a Bachelor’s degree in General Studies with concentrations in Psychology, Sociology, and Criminal Justice, and a Master of Education specializing in Child Development. Her journey reminds me that purpose and growth never have an expiration date. I’m deeply grateful for my husband (Jack), children, and family, whose unwavering love and support keep me grounded and give true meaning to everything I do.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is: “It’s okay to be you just a filtered version of yourself.” That wisdom taught me that authenticity and professionalism can coexist. You don’t have to shrink who you are to succeed; you simply learn which parts of yourself to lead with in each season and setting. Over time, I’ve learned that true leadership isn’t about changing who you are, it’s about showing up with grace, emotional intelligence, and discernment, bringing the best version of yourself to every table you sit at.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to stay confident, adaptable, and resilient. Change is constant, and challenges are inevitable, but they’re also opportunities to grow stronger and wiser. Develop the courage to stand firm in your values, yet remain flexible enough to evolve. Lead with grace, integrity, and confidence because the world needs your voice, your vision, and your authenticity.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is facing rejection, but I’ve learned to see every “no” as a chance for redirection rather than defeat. Each obstacle brings a lesson in resilience, creativity, and faith. Those moments push us to refine our goals, stretch our thinking, and discover new paths to success that we might have otherwise overlooked.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The value most important to me, both in my work and personal life, is integrity. It means doing what’s right even when it’s not easy, and staying true to my principles in every decision I make. Integrity builds trust, and trust builds lasting impact. It’s the foundation of how I lead, how I serve, and how I strive to make a difference every day.