Candi Castleberry Singleton

Graziadio Business School | 2006
Vice President, Diversity Partnership Strategy and Engagement, Twitter

What does being an honoree of this campaign mean to you?

In one hashtag, I'd say #humbled. One hopes to live a life that positively impacts others. This recognition inspires me to continue, and on the days when the challenges of changing the world get heavy, this honor will remind me to keep going.

Describe your success story.

My success is experienced not by my own achievements but by helping others succeed. I get up every day to make the world a better place for others. I believe it is my purpose on the planet. I am grateful that my life and career have taken me on a path to serve others, create pathways for people of different backgrounds to succeed, open doors for diverse people to enter, and to provide seats at tables where previously there were none.

Pepperdine exposed me a global business world and prepared me for my first global role. We had an amazing cultural immersion experience and met leadership across industries in the Asia-Pacific region. We learned from cross-functional business leaders as they introduced us to their business, how it differs from doing business in the US, explained the role of government, and provided on-site tours. This remains one of my cherished Pepperdine experiences.

Describe a lesson you've learned from a challenging time in your career or life.

Family and friends can remind you of your strength on the tough days and shine a light on you on the good days. Life has definitely presented its challenges, but every day my family and friends remind me in some way that I always have some reason to be grateful.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I am passionate and a compassionate leader who cares about my team like family. I have learned that my team and I share success, together! We grow together. We win together. We celebrate together.

Who has helped you achieve success in your career?

I have followed in my dad's career footsteps and nearly every step he has taken on his path to leadership. He has been my father, my friend, my executive coach, and my role model. My mom gives from the bottom of her heart. She has shared and shown my sisters and me courage, humility, and unconditional love. These two have provided practical life skills and the family bond that carries me through all the days of my life. I am so fortunate to have the best friends on the planet. They are both similar and different. Together we learn and grow. Together we face the challenges of life and our respective workplaces. Together we succeed. My success is tied to my family and friends. I owe them everything!

What's next for you?

Dream bigger and change the world!

What was your first job?

McDonald's.

What historical or modern-day leader do you admire and why?

Acting.

What is your mantra or favorite quote?

"You have been given this day to use as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. When tomorrow comes this day will be gone forever, in its place something you left behind. Let it be something good!" —Unknown

How do you prepare for a busy day?

Meditate; prayer; exercise.

What is one of your favorite hobbies?

Bike riding.