Dr. Candice L. Turner is a visionary and trailblazing leader in intercollegiate athletics whose career has been defined by strategic leadership, transformational impact, and an unwavering commitment to student success. Â As the Deputy Athletics Director, Senior Woman Administrator, and Provost Senior Staff Representative at Wayne State University, she is recognized as a dynamic change-maker who creates environments where student-athletes, coaches, and staff can thrive academically, athletically, and professionally. Â A curator of culture and belonging, Dr. Turner champions innovation, leadership development, and meaningful opportunities for growth across collegiate athletics and higher education.
Since joining Wayne State Athletics in 2008, Dr. Turner has served in multiple leadership capacities across the department, helping shape strategic operations, student-athlete support initiatives, external partnerships, and organizational culture.  She currently serves as the sport supervisor for men’s and women’s golf and volleyball and as the secondary sport supervisor for men’s and women’s basketball and football.  Her leadership within these programs has helped strengthen competitive excellence, operational efficiency, and the overall student-athlete experience.
Dr. Turner recently earned selection to the prestigious Wayne State University Academic Leadership Academy, further reflecting her continued commitment to executive leadership development and institutional impact within higher education.
Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Kinesiology, Health, and Sport Studies from Miami University and both a Specialist of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University. Â Her scholarly and professional work centers on leadership, organizational culture, student-athlete wellbeing, and access-driven educational experiences.
A nationally respected leader within collegiate athletics, Dr. Turner has participated in several premier NCAA and industry leadership initiatives, including the NCAA Dr. Charles Whitcomb Leadership Institute, Women Leaders Executive Institute, NACDA Senior Administrator Institute, NCAA Pathways Program, and the Korn Ferry Advance – Leadership U for Humanity program.  She is also a recipient of both the NCAA/Minority Opportunity Athletic Association Governance Grant and the NCAA/Women Leaders in Sports Convention Grant.
As the Founder and Principal of DICE Educational and Sports Consultants, Dr. Turner is recognized for her expertise in strategic leadership, organizational development, brand management, and revenue generation. Â She is a sought-after speaker, educator, and consultant known for implementing transformative initiatives that elevate athletic departments, educational institutions, and leadership teams.
A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Dr. Turner’s commitment to mentorship, service, sisterhood, and leadership remains central to her personal and professional mission.  Her work consistently reflects a passion for empowering others, building thriving communities, and creating pathways for future generations of leaders.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Turner is deeply grounded in family and legacy. Â She is the proud daughter of Bernard and Sharon Turner; the devoted sister of Charise Williams; and the loving tía to her niece, Chylar, a standout senior at Cass Technical High School. Â These relationships continue to inspire her commitment to excellence, service, and creating opportunities that positively impact others for generations to come.
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