Candace Hawkins is a Dispute Resolution and Policy Specialist with the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) where her primary role is to investigate state complaints. In addition, Candace serves as the CDE representative to the Colorado Juvenile Parole Board and the Colorado Restorative Justice Council. Prior to joining CDE, Candace worked as a public interest lawyer representing low-income Minnesota residents in the areas of family, health care, disability rights, housing, public benefits, and education law. Early in her career, Candace worked as a residential care provider, job coach, and vocational case manager for young adults with serious emotional disabilities. Candace is passionate about social justice and effective, transformative conflict resolution.