Sasee Magazine

Nicole visited Forestbrook Middle School and interviewed our March “Woman of Character,” Candice Lively.

We arranged to meet Candice at Forestbrook Middle School where she volunteers her time with the school’s mock trial team, teaching the students about the law and instilling public speaking skills and confidence. According to Stephanie Necessary, assistant coach of the team and creative writing teacher, Candice has donated more than 50 hours of her time to the team, and has helped students blossom and become more confident. She does all of this while raising two young children and working a very demanding full-time job. Watching Candice interact with her team was awe-inspiring; it was obvious how much she cares about them.

[Interview]

Candice, how did you get started with the mock trial team?

Actually, I’ve been involved with mock trial teams for quite a few years. I started with high school teams and now work with middle school students.

What keeps you coming back?

It’s simply the kids. It’s amazing to see these young people get up in front of all kinds of people and do things that I could never have done at their age. I love their enthusiasm and their effort. Mock trial is not an easy thing to do.

Is there one experience that really stands out in your mind? Something you’ll never forget?

Several come to mind. It’s usually that one student who seems so timid and unsure of him/herself and gets to the state competition and just blows us all away. We have one like that here at Forestbrook Middle School. It was wonderful to see her get up in front of the team and act like she had been an attorney for years! Those are the kind of moments that really make me proud.

How do you keep yourself motivated? What do you do for yourself?

It’s hard to find time for much! I have two small children, both in preschool, and they keep me occupied when I’m not at work or coaching the mock trial team. My children are the ones who inspire me to help other children and stay involved with the community. I do try to go to the gym every once in a while, but mostly my free time is spent with my children.

Tell us a little about yourself?

I am a Columbia native and went to college and law school there. I got my first job in Horry County and moved here in 1996. I’ve been a prosecutor for nearly two years now. My husband, Chad Lively, and I live in Murrells Inlet with our children; Matthew, five years old and Bella, three years old. I named my daughter Bella because of our Italian ancestry. My mother is a first generation Italian immigrant, who met and married my dad.

Link to video interview »
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Video: “Nicole talks about Candice Lively, Women of Character

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