Claudia Schabel joined the Iowa Women’s Foundation as Vice President of Programs in June 2025. She brings with her a career-long commitment to building inclusive workplaces and communities where all individuals—especially women and girls—can thrive.

Born and raised in Brazil, Claudia’s global perspective was further shaped by five years living and working in Japan before making Iowa her home in 1999. She earned her degree in International Relations from Drake University in Des Moines, where she lives with her spouse, Brad, and their spirited Golden Retriever, Charlie.

Claudia’s professional journey has spanned the nonprofit, corporate and entrepreneurial sectors. She is the founder and CEO of Schabel Solutions Inc., a workplace culture and leadership consulting firm. She has held key roles at multinational corporations, including DuPont, Principal Financial Group and the Iowa Council for International Understanding (now the Iowa International Center).

Her leadership extends well beyond the workplace. Claudia has dedicated more than two decades to volunteerism and civic engagement. She has served on the City of Des Moines Civil and Human Rights Commission, the Iowa Association of Business and Industry board and held roles with the Iowa Chapter of NAWBO and the Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking and Slavery.

She currently lends her expertise to a number of organizations, including the Iowa SHRM State Council, Grand View University Board of Trustees, SBA Region 7 Small Business Regulatory Fairness Board, Capital Crossroads and the boards of the Science Center of Iowa, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Des Moines.

Claudia’s dedication and leadership have earned her numerous accolades, including the Drake University Zimpleman College of Business Women’s Impact Award, Iowa State University Ivy College of Business Woman Business Owner of the Year, and the Iowa International Center’s Passport to Prosperity Award, among others.

She is energized by the opportunity to channel her experience, network, and vision into IWF’s mission—and to help ensure that all women and girls in Iowa have the resources and support they need to succeed.