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Education leader.
Community Advocate.
Children's Book Author.

My name is Dr. Candace Villanueva Greer, and my passion is empowering youth to reach their potential through education. 

My experience in higher education, nonprofit work, and community engagement, allows me to help drive meaningful change in my community. 

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Future aspirations
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📚A Lifelong Learner Who Believes in Access for All 

My educational journey reflects my commitment to diverse learning experiences and my deep belief in accessible, transformative education:

  • A.A. in Liberal Arts – Johnson County Community College

  • B.A. in Human Services – Ottawa University

  • M.S. in Organizational Development + Leadership Certificate – Avila University

  • Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration – University of Kansas

 

I also completed the Centurions Leadership Program through the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce—a rigorous two-year civic leadership program that cultivates emerging leaders focused on regional impact.

🏫 A Career Rooted in Purpose

Before joining PREP-KC, I spent six years in higher education, working across several departments at Johnson County Community College. That experience gave me an up-close look at the systems that support—or sometimes limit—student success. I’ve since made it my mission to bridge those gaps through strategic program design, collaborative partnerships, and community engagement.

 

My strengths lie in project management, relationship building, and research, all of which help me turn big visions into real opportunities for young people across Kansas City.

💜 Beyond the Office

When I’m not building future-ready programs, I’m involved in causes close to my heart. I love wildlife conservation, I am on the local leadership board with the American Lung Association of Kansas City, and I am active in my local church community.

But my most cherished titles are wife to Tom and mom to our two amazing children, Tommy and Mariana.

Connect with me

💬 Let’s Connect

 

Feel free to reach out to me via email or connect with me on social media. I'm always open to new conversations and collaborations!

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Dr. G's family

TESTIMONIALS

"Fantastic guide to help students explore life after high school."

-Latoya S., Owner & Chief Executive Officer, Rhys·Ivy Company

 

"This is a perfect book to begin having conversations with students about their hopes, dreams, and possibilities after they graduate. After reading, my 4th-grade students were very curious and more interested in learning about the path for their futures. The writing is age-appropriate while still having the right amount of challenging vocabulary to make teaching moments. The illustrations are fun and relatable for students. I can't recommend it enough!

-Emma B., 4th-grade Teacher

 

This book is a fantastic introduction for young students as they are learning and exploring careers and future work possibilities.  As a prior school counselor, I can see integrating this into a Career Exploration Curriculum with elementary students.  The terminology is great for students to begin building their career vocabulary.  The illustrations are fun and eye-catching for the visual learner. A definite need for a School Counselor, Teacher, and Parent's toolbox as they teach and support our future workforce!

-Liz M., retired school counselor & education professional

 

"WOW!  This is an awesome tool for teachers to use when exposing our students to the many career paths available.  Using the QR code to further explore the topics covered in the book is a meaningful enhancement and will allow more opportunities for open discussions about different careers. I recommend this book wholeheartedly."

-Lori P., Middle School Teacher

 

"Like the author, I believe it is never too early to start learning about all the things you can do when you grow up!!  This will be a good resource in the classroom and a reference for people who talk to students regularly."

-Susan E., education professional 

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