Claudia Hawkins-Moïse

As a transplant from South Georgia, Claudia Hawkins-Moïse had never seen snow before moving to the Midwest in 2006.  Claudia believes that all women should be able to make their own life choices.  She enjoyed a career in finance, accounting and business management until the birth of her daughter Vivienne.  At two months premature, Vivienne’s health was at high risk and served as a wake-up call for Claudia.  Without hesitation, Claudia decided to be a full-time stay at home mother.  She is proud of her choice and loves raising her three young children.

Claudia tries to be an inspiration to women and girls, especially her own daughter.  By being strong and pursuing her own growth, Claudia hopes to be a good role model.  Most recently, Claudia embarked on a journey to better health.  Through intentional changes in her diet and hard work at the gym, she managed to lose 85 pounds and overcome diabetes.  Claudia feels empowered by exercise and remains committed to her healthy lifestyle.

Claudia leads with authenticity and kindness.  She wants other women to see life’s imperfections so that they, too, can live true lives and have genuine relationships.  As an ally for women, Claudia shares her talents with many local organizations.  At Soroptimist, she loves educating and promoting women in the Fond du Lac community.  At MOPS (Mothers of Preschool Children), Claudia encourages other young mothers to embrace motherhood with joy and confidence.  Claudia hopes that the community will regard her as an equal.  She hopes that she will be judged by her character and actions, and not by the color of her skin or her gender.  She encourages others to stop caring so much about what people think. Instead, Claudia believes, we should focus on accepting ourselves and helping others accept themselves also.

- Written by Juliane Troicki of Illuminating Project