I view learning as a continuous and iterative process rather than a finite achievement. I engage in self-directed learning, interdisciplinary scholarship, and reflexive practice, particularly in areas related to social and disability justice, caregiving, health equity, feminist theory, and community-based research. This orientation to lifelong learning underpins both my preparation for graduate-level study and my ongoing personal and professional development.
2003-2007: BA-Philosophy, University of Guelph
I hold a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Guelph, where I developed a strong foundation in critical thinking, research, and social analysis.
Achievements: Dean’s Scholar Award
2009-2011: Child & Youth Worker, Georgian College
I later completed a Child and Youth Worker (CYW) Diploma at Georgian College, which provided applied training in relational practice, advocacy, and support for children, youth, and families navigating complex systems and challenges. This program strengthened my commitment to care-centred, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches.
Achievements:
- Nominated for Premier’s Award (Recent Graduate)
- Recipient of Governor General Academic Medal
- Recipient of Board of Governors’ Medal Award
- Recipient of Rotary Club of Orillia Child and Youth Worker Award
- Recipient of Orillia Community Award (Recipient)
- Recipient of Casino Rama Entrance Award
- Recipient of Social Services Entrance Award
2022: Graduate Certificate-Creative Writing, Humber College
I completed a Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing at Humber College, where I focused on creative non-fiction, particularly memoir. Through close mentorship with a writer-instructor, I refined my natural aptitude for creative writing and strengthened my ability to use narrative as a reflexive, analytical, and meaning-making practice.
Achievements: Bram & Bluma Appel Scholarship
2022-2025: BPA-Human Services (with Distinction), Athabasca University
Most recently, I completed a Bachelor of Professional Arts (BPA) in Human Services at Athabasca University, graduating with distinction. This degree allowed me to integrate theory, lived experience, and professional practice through interdisciplinary coursework focused on caregiving, community, health, gender, and social justice. My capstone and research work emphasized community-based approaches, feminist and intersectional frameworks, and ethical reflexivity.
2026 – Present: MA-IS (Community Studies), Athabasca University
My MA-IS studies focus on community studies, with particular attention to autism, caregiving, and intentional community-building. I approach this work through an interdisciplinary lens that integrates critical disability studies, feminist and relational frameworks, and lived experience, with an emphasis on autonomy, dignity, and collective approaches to care and support.
In addition to formal education, my learning has been shaped by extensive professional and applied experience in social and human services at both frontline and administrative levels. Over more than two decades, I have engaged in ongoing training related to disability support, mental health, trauma-informed care, advocacy, and anti-oppression. This applied experience has reinforced the importance of relational accountability, contextual understanding, and collaborative practice, and continues to inform my professional and academic work.
Present:
- Crew Lead – Goderich Celtic Roots Festival & College
- Administrator – Huron Community Connections (Facebook Group)
- Peer liaison – Caregiver Connections (Community Living)
Past:
- Volunteer Coordinator – Relay for Life
- Team Leader – Project Serve
- Organizer – Mental Health & Wellness Events
Candice Reich 