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Things to do
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CARLOS ORTIZ staff photographer
Claudia Burcke
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Personal: 37, of Rochester, married and owner of a pug named Newton.
Occupation: Managing Director, Business Development for Greater Rochester Enterprise
Community activities: Junior League of Rochester; YWCA Nominating Committee; NextGen (Giving Circle through Rochester Area Community Foundation); Junior Achievement; International Sister Cities of Rochester (ISCOR) — Waterford, Ireland committee; Monroe County Industrial Development Corp. (MCIDC); Rochester Women’s Network; Rochester Young Professionals; Eastman Young Professionals and Children’s International sponsor. Avid supporter of: The Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, Seneca Park Zoo Society, World Society for the Protection of Animals, World Wildlife Foundation, Sea Turtle Inc., Save Darfur Coalition and the Veterans Outreach Center.
My favorite thing to do in Rochester: Red Wings baseball games on summer nights.
Biggest challenge I’ve overcome and how I did it: I was a technical recruiter and was out of work for nine months after a lay-off in September 2001. I helped so many people find jobs, but I couldn’t do it for myself. It was disheartening and took a toll on my home life. During this time, I volunteered for Literacy Volunteers of Rochester, and also served on their board of directors. This not only helped me to “give back” and stay busy, but it was also great to network with other people in the community.
An opportunity with a non-profit organization came my way, and even though it was a “few steps back” from where I was, it was the best career decision of my life. I had to budget differently and cut back on some things, but it really showed me what was important and what I could do without. I have my dream job now, and I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t take that chance.
One thing I’ve always wanted to do but never have: Travel to the Galapagos Islands and camp under the stars with the giant tortoises. I’ll get there eventually.
If I could change one thing about myself it would be: Develop patience – I am, admittedly, a little high-strung.
The talent I would most like to have: Patience.
The one thing I can’t live without: Besides the obvious answers of my family and my girlfriends — coffee.
My favorite movie: Casablanca.
One of my favorite sayings is: “Well-behaved women rarely make history.” — Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
A person who has inspired me (and why): My father, John, showed me that you don’t have to be wealthy to be philanthropic. His quiet and selfless acts of generosity and courage have shaped my behavior and have inspired me to try to be a better daughter, sister, woman, friend and citizen.
