Candice Hinton ’18MSA, ’24PHD: ‘It’s Important to Recognize How Both Education and Life Experiences Shape Who You Are and Who You Become’

After 20 years in public education, Candice Hinton ’18MSA, ’24PHD transitioned to a principal role in a men’s correctional institution. Now, as she prepares to graduate with her doctoral degree in educational leadership, Hinton hopes to use her research on the school-to-prison pipeline to keep students in school and ensure all learners, no matter their circumstances, have access to an outstanding education. 

Meet Candice: 

Hometown: Pilot, North Carolina

Degree: Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Why did you choose the NC State College of Education?

I am deeply committed to my education at NC State University, where I have earned all three of my degrees. After completing my Master of School Administration through NELA Cohort VI, I was determined to pursue my final degree from the College of Education at NC State.

What’s next for you?

I will continue to work for the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction [as the principal at Granville Correctional Institution] to ensure that offenders in North Carolina receive their education and receive services that are state and federally mandated. I will use my research concerning the school-to-prison pipeline and begin consulting with teachers and districts on strategies to keep students in school and not lose them to the criminal justice system.

How has the College of Education prepared you for that next step?

My experience at NC State has been incredible. I’ve gained the confidence and skills needed for success, and I strive to help others discover the same potential within themselves. The professors throughout my education at NC State have been outstanding, both professionally and personally. They consistently encouraged me to face challenges head on and reach my goals.

What do you hope to accomplish in your field?

I intend to continue my research on the school-to-prison pipeline with a deeper focus on education for incarcerated individuals. My goal is to share best practices with those in education to ensure that all students, regardless of their circumstances, have access to equitable education.

Why did you choose education?

Education is one thing that no one can take from you. Whether gained in a classroom, at home or elsewhere, it’s important to recognize how both education and life experiences shape who you are and who you become.