Eric Candela manages implementation of the award-winning Tree Equity program in urban centers throughout the country. By nurturing collaboration among broad coalitions of partners who have an interest in healthy urban tree canopy, Candela helps to attract additional resources and build capacity to improve urban forestry in American Forests’ partner cities. Candela graduated from Michigan State University and spent six years working for Congressman John D. Dingell, one of the United States’ foremost conservationists, from whom he learned a great deal about both environmental stewardship and collaborative partnerships. Prior to joining American Forests, Candela served as the director of government relations for The Greening of Detroit.