Interviewed March 26, 2021
“When I first learned the vaccine was ready, my reaction was fear. The fear comes from a historical perspective that acknowledges the journey of people of color in this county and how so many times the medical establishment has failed us...So I realized I was in the midst of the tension of wanting to believe in what is possible. To believe in the science. To believe in the media saying that the vaccine can solve for what has been really painful for the community of African Americans here in Baltimore...My learning journey came from my trusted community. And the trusted community by and large were people who looked like me who were also involved in the science.”
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Candace Breland Osunsade currently serves as EVP, Chief People and Diversity Officer for Catholic Relief Services. Candace is a respected thought leader with 30 years of business experience in large to mid-size for profit and non-profit organizations. She is an experienced leader of transformational change and a skilled developer of high performing teams; and a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategist. Candace is actively engaged in the Baltimore community as a Board Member [Building Steps, Associated Black Charities and St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Tourism and Development Commission the Governor’s Office] and a committed volunteer with mission-based organizations focused on improving educational outcomes for under-served students.