Best Day Wilmington: Candy Robbins

What’s a woman to do with a free day in Wilmington, an unlimited bank account, and the will to have the most fun possible? 

That’s what we asked Candy Robbins, who has reason to celebrate – she’s marking her thirtieth year working locally in education.  

“I still see students thirty years later, and now I’m seeing their children, and it’s full circle,” she says. 

Robbins, who is a product of Laney High School herself, didn’t think she’d stay in Wilmington after getting a degree in social work but came back for family reasons. Her uncle, who at the time was a history teacher in the county, suggested working in education. 

“He said, ‘It’s very rewarding. If you can change the life of one child, then you’re doing your job,'” Robbins recalls. “So, I thought, okay.”  

She started at what was then D.C. Virgo Middle School, moved on to Lakeside Alternative and New Hanover high schools, then on to Snipes Academy of Arts and Design. For the past twelve years, she’s been the social worker at Castle Hayne Elementary and also works at Ogden Elementary. At one point in her career, Robbins earned a master’s to become a principal, but says she never found a role that felt right. She ultimately found that her true calling, she says, is working directly with kids as their advocate. 

“I come to work because I like being around the kids,” Robbins says. “I learn something from our kindergartners on up to seniors in high school – I’m always learning something new, and just to watch the kids evolve, that’s why I come.”  

She particularly loves seeing the joy on their faces when good things happen in their lives, she says, and serving as a connection for them between home and the community. 

Outside of school, Robbins loves to dance – specifically, line dance – and she also loves music, traveling, driving, and spending time with family and friends. She has been active in leadership roles with the Beta Sigma Sigma Wilmington Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.; is a charter member of the National Coalition of Negro Women; and serves on many boards in various capacities, including as parliamentarian on the North Carolina School Social Worker Association.  

Here’s how she would spend a perfect day in the Port City: 

How are you starting your day? 

“The perfect day always begins with hopping on the prayer line with my pastor, GEORGE MAIZE, III, and then a phone call with my daughter, CIERRA, for a little extra spirituality meditation. Then I’m taking my dog on a walk around the neighborhood so I can get in my steps. Now I’m ready to head to Brunches either at Randall Parkway or The Pointe for breakfast with my sorority sisters, KEBRINA, CHAKEMA, BERNICE and ASHANTI! I love to get either their Shrimp & Grits Bowl or the All-American with French toast instead of pancakes and add extra bacon please. Sometimes I order both, one to eat there and one to take home! There are so many drinks to choose from, I always try something different. I am such a foodie!” 

Where would you go next? 

 “Since my daughter, Cierra, gifted me a Woodhouse Spa package, I am heading to Mayfaire for a little rest, relaxation and reset with my bestie, MEISHA.”   

What’s for lunch?  

“Low Country Boils on South College Road for lunch with my friend, TREASA, is next on the list! Their low country boil is the best!” 

How are you spending your afternoon? 

“Now it’s time for some shopping at a few local thrift and boutique shops with my friend, KRISTIN. We would go to ZIA Boutique, Meadowlark, Vestique, The Sip & Shop Boutique and Goodwill just to name a few. After that, I’m heading to Belk, Dillard’s, T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Ulta, and any other store that’s in my path for 

more retail therapy with my friend, JETTE.” 

Where are you stopping for a snack? 

“I love the vibe of On Thyme Restaurant on Castle Street! If you haven’t tried their famous Philly eggrolls, seafood eggrolls, and fried okra, you are missing out. My girlfriends, KIM, GWEN, MONKIA, are always down for a little wing dinner and an adult beverage, especially on karaoke night!” 

How about dinner? 

“I would meet my husband, VERNON, and head to Junction 421 on South College Road.  It is a very laid-back space – we love to visit. The owner is attentive and funny, and we absolutely love their crab-stuffed salmon and Brussels sprouts! Can’t leave out dessert, their creme brulee is the best way to top off the dinner.” 

How are you spending an evening out? 

“My husband and I would end the evening by driving down to Fort Fisher to listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean as we reminisce and laugh the night away. When we return home, we’ll close out the night with prayer and meditation.” 

Editor’s note: Responses were edited for clarity. 

Nominate yourself or other women to share their version of a perfect day in the Port City! Send an email lpodraza@wilmingtonbiz.com with the subject line, “Best Day Wilmington.” 

To view more of photographer Aris Harding’s work, go to arisharding.com.

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