CANDACE KANAVEL
Tempe Police Officer • Miss Arizona USA 2023 • Founder of “Yes She CAN” •
Speaker & Role Model
Dual Identity. Singular Impact.
Candace Kanavel is a trailblazer who redefines what strength looks like. As a crisis-trained police officer and national pageant titleholder, she challenges stereotypes and inspires audiences to embrace every facet of their identity—with courage, grace, and unapologetic boldness.
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Law Enforcement Credentials
- Role: Crisis Intervention Officer & Hostage Negotiator, Tempe PD SWAT
- Experience: 5+ years in law enforcement, specializing in de-escalation and community outreach
- Education: B.S. in Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University
- Future Vision: Aspires to serve in federal law enforcement and advocate for women in uniform
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Pageant Achievements
- Title: Miss Arizona USA 2023
- Historic First: First active-duty police officer to compete in Miss USA
- Past Titles: Miss Teen San Jose, Miss Santa Clara County USA, Miss North Tempe USA
- Accolades: Miss Congeniality, Top 28 (2021), Semi-Finalist (2020), 1st Runner-Up (2022)
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Speaking Topics
- Breaking molds: Women in law enforcement and pageantry
- Crisis communication and negotiation under pressure
- Empowerment through dual identity: femininity, strength, and service
- Advocacy for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault
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Media & Brand Presence
- Instagram: @candacekanavel
- Features: FOX10 Phoenix, ASU News, Police Magazine
- Community Work: “Shop with a Cop,” youth mentorship, survivor advocacy
- Brand Fit: Empowerment campaigns, law enforcement panels, lifestyle collaborations
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Why Book Candace
Candace captivates with a story that defies expectations. Whether in uniform or on stage, she represents the power of showing up fully—feminine, fierce, and mission-driven. Her presence elevates any event, campaign, or brand that celebrates resilience, leadership, and authenticity.
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💬 What Audiences & Media Say
| Trudy Jacobson, Great American Warriors Series |
“It takes someone truly special to be an inspiration to multiple groups of people. Officer Kanavel does just that… She is a Great American Warrior in many ways, and we are so proud to have her as part of our GAW family.”
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| ASU News Feature |
“Candace Kanavel defies stereotypes. She’s a sworn Tempe police officer and Miss Arizona USA—committed to service, community, and empowering young women to dream beyond the expected.”
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| FOX 10 Phoenix |
“From patrol to pageants, Candace Kanavel is passionate about both and is excited to be a role model for teens in Arizona.”
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| Under the Shield Foundation |
“Candace’s commitment to service shines through her work with ‘Yes She CAN’ and other organizations that help victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking.”
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🔑 Keynote Expertise
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Law Enforcement & First Responder Forums
Speaks powerfully on identity, resilience, and service from both sides of the badge and the crown. -
Empowerment & Youth Leadership Events
Inspires young women to embrace strength, femininity, and ambition without compromise. -
Corporate Keynotes and Panels
Offers unique insight into duality, representation, and breaking molds in traditionally male-dominated fields. -
Perfect for Ladies Luncheons, Chambers of Commerce, and Corporations
Candace brings a dynamic blend of professionalism, poise, and purpose—ideal for audiences seeking inspiration, leadership, and authentic storytelling.
🎤 Featured Speaking & Interview Clips
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Trudy Jacobson Presents: Candace Kanavel, the real life Miss ...
A dynamic introduction to Candace’s story, blending humor and heart. This segment draws parallels to Miss Congeniality while spotlighting her real-world impact as a police officer and role model. -
Miss Arizona USA 2023 - Tempe Police Officer Candace ...
Candace shares her groundbreaking journey as the first police officer to compete at Miss USA. Her reflections on identity, service, and representation make this a standout for empowerment audiences. -
Candace Kanavel at NDP - 2025
A formal keynote-style appearance where Candace is introduced as a trailblazer in both law enforcement and pageantry. Perfect for showcasing her poise and presence at professional events. -
The White House Pod - Dare to Dream - Miss Congeniality ...
A long-form podcast interview diving deep into Candace’s career, challenges, and advocacy. She discusses her work with SWAT and her mission to empower women through “Yes She CAN.” -
Candace Kanavel is crowned Miss Arizona USA 2023!
A celebratory moment capturing her crowning and media buzz. Great for visual storytelling in campaign reels or speaker sizzle videos. -
Essential Worker Stories: Candace Koff
A tribute-style feature highlighting Candace’s dedication as an essential worker. This clip adds depth to her public service narrative and community impact.
For Booking Information Or Media Requests, Contact Judy Landreth Wilkinson |[email protected] | (706) 518-2116.