As Chief Development Officer, Claudia is responsible for setting the strategy and vision for private revenue fundraising and external communications for the organization. As a member of the Executive Team, she supports the development of First Place’s strategic direction, implements local, statewide, and national fundraising efforts, and oversees the branding and storytelling that positions First Place as a national leader. Her direct reports include the Director of Development and Director of Communications. 

Claudia rejoined the First Place team in 2024, after spending four years as Senior Director of Advancement at Venture Leadership Collective where she supported nearly 20 nonprofits in the Bay Area, New Mexico and Georgia and raised over more than $20 million collectively for organizations focused on social and racial justice issues. 

Having worked as a newspaper and magazine reporter, Claudia started her nonprofit career at First Place for Youth in 2007 as the Grants Manager, when the organization had an annual operating budget of $4 million. During her tenure, the organization grew from a Bay Area-focused organization to statewide, and eventually national organization. 

Claudia has a BA in Latin American Studies and Political Science from Duke University along with several fundraising certifications and credentials. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, hiking, and time spent at the beach.