Claudia Valdez

President

I am: 37

I’m a young professional at: California Baptist University

I get involved in my community through the following organization(s): Pick Group, Centerpoint Church in Colton, the San Bernardino City Mission, and Keep Nature Wild (Wild Keeper Ambassadors).

I am a happy resident in the City of: Colton

My career goals are to: Continue to grow my professional network, pursue continuous learning and skill development, make a positive impact in the communities I serve, and begin the process of writing a book.

My professional motto is: "Fight the good fight, Keep the Faith, Finish Well..." "Life is a Marathon, not a Sprint."

My advice to other Young Pros is: Remember your WHY! Try things that get you out of your comfort zone, be proactive, invest in yourself, build your network, make meaningful relationships, have a continuous learning mindset, be intentional, find your mentors and sponsors, embrace feedback, and stay resilient!

When I’m not working or volunteering, you can find me: Braving the world for my amazing son, on mission trips, running, or at the beach.

I joined PICK because: To build my network with other young professionals and get more involved in the Riverside community.

PICK is awesome because: The people are fabulous! Plus, there are various opportunities to make new connections with other professionals from numerous organizations in Riverside. Furthermore, there are multiple possibilities for professional growth.

I maximize my PICK membership by: Serving on the Pick Board of Directors (Board Member at Large, VP, and now as President), taking on new opportunities and initiatives, attending as many events as possible, and being involved with the various Pick Group committees (Professional Development Chair, Impact Chair, and Social Committee).

The issues in Riverside that I care about most are: K-12 and college student success, women empowerment, housing, and keeping Riverside clean.