
About Dr.Candice Lucas-Bledsoe
Dr. Candice Bledsoe is an internationally recognized expert in the area of innovation and leadership. She is the Global Chief Executive Officer for the Action Research Center in Dallas, Texas. She holds appointments at several universities including, Penn State University, SMU Cox School of Business, and Hunt Institute of Engineering and Humanity. Previously, Dr. Bledsoe served as a Professor at Yonok University in Lampang, Thailand. She also led international initiatives in organizations such as, Bank of Thailand, Bain & Company, Microsoft, Qatar University, Hong Kong University Science and Technology, and Abu Dhabi Department of Education Council (ADEC).
The United Nations honored Dr. Bledsoe with the UN Global Leadership Award for Sustainable Goal 4: Quality Education for her tireless efforts to increase access to education and school enrollment rates at all levels, especially for girls. In 2024, she received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and innovation that address real world challenges. She was also honored with the Athena International Leadership Award for closing the wealth gap for underrepresented groups. Dr. Bledsoe was named a Top 100 Global Leader by the Global Diversity Council for her exceptional leadership qualities.
Dr. Bledsoe has published many articles and received numerous fellowships including: The National Endowment of Humanities, theNew Leadership Academy, National Center of Institutional Diversity, University of Michigan, the Boone Family Foundation, and Dallas Public Voices. She has delivered hundreds of keynote speeches across the world.
Dr. Bledsoe received her Doctorate in Education from University Southern California. She also holds degrees from Baylor and Southern Methodist University.


Programs and Services
Dr. Candice Lucas-Bledsoe offers programs and services designed to ignite creativity, inspire action, and deliver meaningful impact. From immersive leadership and innovation workshops to strategic consulting that helps organizations solve challenges and seize new opportunities, her work equips clients to think boldly and act with purpose. She also specializes in storytelling for impact—guiding individuals and teams to craft compelling narratives that connect deeply and inspire change. Through engaging keynotes, customized sessions, and hands-on collaborations, Dr. Bledsoe empowers people and organizations to achieve lasting results.