Spirit of '76 Speaker Series: Claire Babineaux-Fontenot

JOIN US!

Join us for an inspiring evening as the Spirit of ’76 Speaker Series welcomes Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, for a timely and thought-provoking presentation, “Food Security in America: A National Perspective.” At a moment when communities across the country are navigating complex economic and social challenges, Claire will offer insight into the realities families face today — and the innovative, collaborative solutions helping expand access to nutritious food nationwide.

As the leader of the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, Claire Babineaux-Fontenot brings a broad national lens shaped by partnerships with food banks, community leaders, and advocates in every state. Her perspective is grounded in both data and lived experience, combining strategy with heart. We invite you to join us for this meaningful evening of learning and connection, and to be part of a conversation that strengthens our shared commitment to building a more food-secure future.

  • DATE: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
  • TIME: 7:30pm
  • LOCATION: Elyria High School Performing Arts Center
    600 West Ave, Elyria, OH 44035

THIS EVENT IS FREE TO THE PUBLIC, BUT REGISTRATION IS HIGHLY ENCOURAGED.




ABOUT THE SPEAKER SERIES
The Spirit of ‘76 Speaker Series creates conversations of significance in marking the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence

The aim is to engender in our community an awakening to our role as citizens in this marvelous experiment called democracy. Our forum is dedicated to uniting our community and inspiring attendees to pursue a greater good together than we can achieve alone.

CEO OF FEEDING AMERICA
Claire Babineaux-Fontenot

Claire Babineaux-Fontenot

Claire Babineaux-Fontenot is a leader and advocate dedicated to combating hunger and strengthening communities. Her unwavering commitment to working alongside people experiencing food insecurity to create sustainable, fair solutions in the movement to end hunger is emblematic of her decades long service in social justice and humanitarian efforts.

Since 2018, Claire has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Feeding America, a network of food banks, statewide food bank associations, food pantries and meal programs, and the largest charity in the United States since 2022, according to Forbes. Under her strategic guidance, the organization has reached new milestones in addressing domestic food insecurity. Claire's leadership has propelled Feeding America forward, navigating through the challenges of a global pandemic and significantly growing the strength of its network of food banks and partner agencies to better serve communities and people facing hunger.

Claire was named one of Time's 100 Most Influential People of 2020. In 2021, she was honored with PRWeek’s Communicator of the Year award and Sothern Methodist University’s Distinguished Alumni Award. Claire was among Forbes 50 over 50 in 2022, and, in 2023, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities honored Claire with the Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Her relentless pursuit of a fair, hunger-free America exemplifies her as a trailblazer and a compassionate advocate for social justice.