Suggestions
Clare McKendry
Substitute Teacher and Greenhouse Program Coordinator at the Campus at Lookout Mountain
Professional Background
Clare McKendry is a passionate advocate for youth, currently working at Lookout Mountain Youth Services Center. In her role, she helps students transition successfully from the center into their next steps in education and employment. Clare’s dedication is evident in her hands-on approach, assisting these young individuals in applying to colleges, securing financial aid, and finding jobs that best fit their skill sets and career aspirations. Beyond college and job applications, she also takes on the role of an educator, teaching an after-school law class focused on the students' constitutional rights, criminal law within Colorado, and fundamental rules of parole. Clare’s versatile engagement doesn’t stop there; she often steps in as a substitute teacher whenever the need arises, showcasing her commitment to youth education and support.
Prior to her current position, Clare has accrued a significant amount of experience in various educational and legal roles. Her background is a testament to her skills and her unwavering dedication to social justice and empowering youth through knowledge.
Education and Achievements
Clare McKendry has a rich educational background that complements her career in law and social work. She earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Santa Clara University School of Law, where she also obtained a Public Interest and Social Justice Certificate with an emphasis on Criminal Justice. These qualifications enable Clare to apply a comprehensive understanding of the law effectively, especially in her role as a mentor and advocate for youth in the juvenile justice system.
Before pursuing law, Clare completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Denver, where she honed her skills in social work, preparing her to understand and address the needs of vulnerable populations. In pursuit of her undergraduate education, Clare attended Carnegie Mellon University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Gender Studies and an emphasis on Creative Writing and Poetry. Her studies in English further enhance her communication skills, allowing her to articulate complex legal concepts to her students in an accessible manner.
Experience and Contributions
Clare’s career is marked by significant contributions to various organizations focused on advocating for youth and providing support for those in need of legal guidance and social services. Among her notable experiences are the following:
- Substitute Teacher and Academic Support at TEENS, Inc.: Clare works diligently to support teens in their educational journeys, often filling in as a substitute teacher to ensure educational continuity.
- Post Secondary Coordinator at TEENS, Inc.: In this previous role, she coordinated essential programs to help students transition into higher education and the workforce.
- MSW Intern at RSA, Inc.: Her internship focused on engaging with communities and providing essential support for individuals in need.
- Refugee and Asylee Programs Intern at Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains: Clare gained invaluable experience working with diverse populations, assisting individuals and families in navigating social and legal challenges.
- Legal Internships: Clare has held several internships that equipped her with hands-on legal experience, such as her roles with the Santa Clara County Public Defender and the Habeas Corpus Resource Center, allowing her to work with juvenile and criminal law cases that relate closely to her current work with youth.
- Research Assistant Positions: Clare contributed to the Northern California Innocence Project and her own university, enhancing her research skills that further bolster her understanding of legal systems and their implications for justice.
In addition to her educational and professional accomplishments, Clare’s involvement in extracurricular activities, such as founding and captaining the Women's Water Polo Club at Carnegie Mellon University, demonstrates her leadership abilities and commitment to sports and community engagement.
Achievements
Clare McKendry’s achievements reflect her commitment to social justice, legal education, and youth advocacy. She has effectively bridged her legal expertise and social work backgrounds to foster a supportive environment for students leaving the juvenile justice system. Her teaching in after-school programs not only enriches her students’ understanding of their rights and responsibilities but inspires them to become informed citizens.
As a Jill of all trades, Clare embodies adaptability, thriving in various roles and making significant contributions wherever she goes. Her evident love for her job and her students radiates through her work, making her an influential figure in the lives of many. Clare is not just preparing students for the next chapter in their lives; she is empowering them to realize their potential and navigate their futures with confidence. With a solid foundation in law, social work, and education, Clare is a beacon of hope and knowledge for the youth she serves.
