Leadership
Claudia Kirk Barto President - Leadership
Claudia has over 25 years of non-profit leadership experience at organizations like the Lupus Foundation of America Southeast Florida Chapter. She has also worked with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Palm Beach Area Chapter, and United Way of Palm Beach County. Claudia grew up in Palm Beach where philanthropy is a way of life. She is the proud daughter of former Florida Governor Claude Kirk.
She is a graduate of the Leadership Palm Beach County Class of 2014 and currently an active alum. She is past President of The West Palm Beach Rotary Club, 2018-2020, former chair of the Florida Commission on the Status of Women 2008-2009, served 2000-2012 and serves on the board of the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches. Claudia earned a Bachelors degree in Communications from Florida State University.
Erica Henn Vice President of Education - Leadership
Erica Henn is the dedicated Vice President of Education at Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, both from Florida Atlantic University.
With over 16 years of experience as an educator and assistant principal, Erica has been a pillar of her community, passionately working to empower students to achieve their goals and thrive as successful members of society. Her commitment to education and leadership extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by her recent graduation from the Leadership program at the Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce, where she also serves as an ambassador.
Currently, Erica is continuing her leadership development as a member of the Leadership Palm Beach County Engage Class of 2025. As a resident of Wellington, she is deeply involved in her community, often found cheering on her three active boys at local sports fields alongside her husband, Steven.
Katie Thompson Chief Operating Officer - Leadership
Katie Thompson currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English Education and her Masters degree in Educational Leadership both from Florida Atlantic University.
Katie has 10 years of experience in the field of education, most recently serving as a high school Assistant Principal. During her time in the classroom, Katie taught both middle and high school English and earned the distinction of a High Impact Teacher from the Florida Department of Education. Katie is also a proud member of Leadership Palm Beach County class of 2021.
Katie currently lives in Jupiter, Florida, with her husband, Michael and two stepsons.
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