My Story

Claire Barner’s love of science fiction began when her father introduced her to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Frank Herbert, and Lois McMaster Bujold at an early age.

Claire lives in Chicago and has spent her career in operations. She is an avid gardener, on a mission to maximize the number of tomatoes her small bungalow lot can produce. Claire loves to cook freshly harvested vegetables, mix strong cocktails, and host lively dinner parties.  

Claire and her husband are raising three lifelong learners who are thoughtful and curious about the world around them. Her family loves exploring Chicago’s garden walks, lakefront, museums, and forest preserves. Claire leads the parent engagement group at her children’s school and is committed to enhancing equity at Chicago Public Schools.  

Claire studied public policy and education at the University of Chicago.