Claire England is Interim Executive Director for RISE Global. RISE is a nonprofit program dedicated to inspiring and empowering entrepreneurs. Created originally as a week-long, free "un-conference" for and by entrepreneurs in Austin, Texas, RISE has grown into an ongoing annual program that leverages its proprietary web interface to provide one-of-a-kind resources and experiences to entrepreneurs worldwide for free. RISE Week Austin 2012 is March 26-30; learn more at riseglobal.org.

Claire’s background encompasses nonprofit management, digital and social media marketing, public relations, project management, and client relations. She spent 10+ years in nonprofit management at organizations such as Foundation Communities, Caritas of Austin, Texas Bicycle Coalition, and Houston Grand Opera. For the past two years, Claire worked in the private sector as a digital media strategist, consulting with businesses in digital marketing, social media, and public relations. She also served as Senior Accounts Director for KBJOnline, a boutique social media agency. She is a cum laude graduate of Texas State University with a B.A. in Mass Communication – Public Relations and a minor in Music. Claire is passionate about championing entrepreneurs and technology, connecting great people, and supporting social entrepreneurship.