Claudia Connor is a deeply committed non-profit leader and activist sharing her passion and experience in this riveting interview. For decades, Claudia has held leadership positions with agencies diligently working to create direct service programs and resources that impact our community members. Currently, she is the US Regional Representative with Church World Service, a faith-based organization transforming communities around the globe through just and sustainable responses to hunger, poverty, displacement and disaster. Claudia has also held executive titles with CT Institute for Refugees & Immigrants (CIRI) and Save the Children.
Claudia was a former criminal defense attorney working with Legal Aid in NYC with the Prisoners Rights Project, and is no stranger to defending civil rights and social justice. Her passion grew from her progressive and activist parents who modeled strength and resistance while she was growing up. She shares an experience while in college at UNC Chapel Hill that influenced her decision to join a student social justice group which ultimately changed the trajectory of her career.
After years living abroad in Asia and Africa which ultimately deepened her viewpoint and commitment to social justice, she informs the listener of the many changes and necessary adaptations that have occurred in 2025 since federal funds have been challenging to depend on and sustain. Fundraising for CWS relies on communities, private foundations, and collaborations to engage in events like “crop walks” to help raise mission-critical funds for programming and services that directly benefit thousands of people while raising awareness about hunger and poverty. Her hopeful and positive outlook is her guiding light along with the inspiration of her colleagues and community despite the various challenges that percolate when leading a team during uncertain times.