Claudia's parents first crossed paths when her father, a member of the Air Force, was stationed in Brindisi, Italy, where he encountered her mother, a native Italian. This chance encounter ultimately led to the birth and upbringing of Claudia in Providence, Rhode Island.
As an East Providence High School student, Claudia's remarkable athletic abilities earned her a spot on the All-State Track and Field team. Her impressive performance didn't go unnoticed, as she participated in three Junior Olympics and even secured a third-place finish in the long jump at the East Coast Invitational.
Following her high school graduation, Claudia pursued her passion for broadcasting and journalism at Baldwin Wallace College in Ohio. During her college years, she hosted her own campus radio program, honed her skills at the Providence American Newspaper, and even landed a job at the Boston television station WHDH-TV.
Claudia's impressive resume continued to grow as she represented Rhode Island as Miss Teen USA in 1991 and later as Miss USA in 1997. Her extensive list of commercial credits includes notable brands such as Coor's Light, Sears, Denny's, and Pepsi.
