Mission-Driven Impact Beyond the Stage

Candy Girl Mentality is not just a book—it’s a movement reshaping how students see themselves and how organizations invest in the next generation.

Recognized by Detroit Public Schools Community District as part of its Local Authors Panel
Selected to share with educators, administrators,
and students across the district.

Mission Snapshot

Through the Candy Girl Mentality Movement, resilience and resourcefulness come alive—shaping financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, and leadership skills that ripple into every part of life. These lessons extend beyond the classroom, sparking transformation that reaches workplaces, communities, and society at large.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF IMPACT

RESILIENT STUDENTS

RESILIENT LEADERS

RESILIENT
WORKPLACES

RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

Financial Literacy

Academic Growth

Improved
Self-Esteem

Career Awareness

Communication
Skills

Problem-Solving Mindset

Financially Literate Employees

Reduced Absenteeism

Increased Productivity

Stronger Families

Thriving Neighborhoods

Generational Impact

Programs Elevating the Impact

CAREER AWARENESS

"You cannot be what you cannot see. Exposure opens doors to every career path."

Opening students’ eyes to what’s possible by connecting them with role models and real-world career paths.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

"Communication is more than talking — it’s connecting, inspiring, and leading."

Building confidence to inform, inspire, and persuade in classrooms, interviews, and leadership roles.

FINANCIAL EDUCATION

"Don’t just survive with money — learn to thrive."

Teaching students to thrive financially by making money work for them, not the other way around.

PARTNER WITH US

INVITE LISA & CGM TO YOUR SCHOOL

Pair the Book with Programs that Change Students’ Lives.

PAY IT FORWARD

Voices of Impact

Lisa with Principal Tiffany Cox,
CMA High School, DPSCD

I don't want to just survive. I want to thrive."

— 10th Grade Student, Survival Is Not Enough Keynote, Financial Literacy Month Celebration, DPSCD, Detroit, Michigan.

When 9th and 10th graders start saying,

‘I need to save. I need a plan. I can do it’ — that’s a game changer!"

— Tiffany Cox, Principal, Communication and Media Arts High School, Detroit, Michigan

Her session is very engaging, and I would recommend hearing her speak to my peers."

— High School Student, Art of Public Speaking Session, Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP), Detroit, Michigan

I am a true fan of the village, and I appreciate the impact you had on my daughter… After meeting you for myself, I see why. Your
work is necessary."

— Shay Bailey, Parent

Impact Across the Nation

With over 4,000 copies in circulation, Lisa Howze — award-winning keynote speaker, CPA, and former university vice president — has inspired students across 28 states and the District of Columbia. Through her book Candy Girl Mentality, Lisa reinforces her message of resilience and leadership, crossing classrooms, communities, and campuses nationwide — proof that this movement multiplies impact.

CGM Reach & Opportunities:

Blue (Michigan): Place of origin — Detroit, where the CGM movement began

Gold States (27 + D.C.): Students currently impacted by

Candy Girl Mentality

White States (22): Expanding opportunities to extend CGM’s impact

Candy Girl Mentality — The tool reinforcing Lisa’s message across the nation

For a detailed listing of the nearly 100 colleges and universities represented, [download the full report here].

Organizations Fueling the Impact

Early Adopter Partners

Youth Pipeline Partners

PARTNER WITH US

Echoes of Partnership

"Lisa's mission to empower the next generation of leaders perfectly aligns with our strategic plan and is the foundation of our partnership."

— Bob Doyle, President & CEO

Michigan Association of CPAs

Impact Tools & Resources

National Impact Report

A snapshot of Lisa’s reach through Candy Girl Mentality — now inspiring students across 28 states and D.C., with nearly 100 colleges and universities represented.
[Download PDF]