Originally from Washington, D.C., Claudia Strawderman began taking ballet classes with CityDance at the Music Center at Strathmore. At thirteen, she moved to Istanbul, Turkey, and while there continued training in the Royal Academy and Vaganova methods. After completing her BA Honors in History at Sheffield Hallam University in Sheffield, United Kingdom, Claudia moved to Charlottesville and began employment with the Thomas Jefferson Foundation at Monticello in the Guest Relations Department. Claudia joined the Charlottesville Ballet administrative team in 2022 and was promoted to Development Manager in 2024.  She is thrilled to combine her passion for dance alongside her work to promote the mission of the Ballet.