Samantha Ryder

Sam Ryder oversees the operational execution of Candid’s Community Engagement initiatives, including shaping the strategic vision for Candid Learning. In this role, she provides operational leadership, aligns resources across teams, and champions cross-departmental collaboration to deliver impactful programs that expand opportunities for nonprofits.

Sam joined Candid in 2018 after leading her own consulting practice, where she worked with clients across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, including IT and financial services firms, nonprofit organizations, and the City of Cleveland. Previously, she served as Chief of Staff for Cleveland City Council and as a Family Liaison for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

She holds a B.A. in Spanish Language and Arts from the University of Akron, including certificates from the Universidad de Salamanca, and an M.A. in International Relations from John Carroll University.