Expertise
“The business case is proven. Companies deliver better through diversity.” - Karen Clopton
Chair, San Francisco Human Rights Commission
Operational, Legal and Compliance Expert
Organizational Leadership
Appointed Human Rights Commissioner for the City of San Francisco by Mayor London Breed, Commissioner Clopton mediates and resolves issues relating to individuals, community groups, businesses and government agencies. At the California Department of Corporations and Port of San Francisco, Commissioner Clopton oversaw the P&L, portfolio management, and hiring, training, and management across distributed teams.
“Karen is an engaging leader with a sharp legal acumen. We have worked on diversity related initiatives in her capacity as Chair of the Council, and I have found her to be a thoughtful, reliable, contemplative, and decisive.” - Craig Holden, Partner, Lewis Brisbois Law Firm (Chairman, National Complex Business & Commercial Litigation Department)
Leading Innovation in DEI Solutions
Focused on transformational Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion protocols and implementation, Karen V. Clopton offers DEI strategic planning, measurement, and engagement tools, including success indicators and sustainability methods tied to corporate goals and performance. Methodologies include audits, assessments and analyses of organizational history, budget, and bias.
“I have known Judge Clopton for almost nine years starting when I was a CPUC Commissioner, and I can attest to her integrity, high level of professionalism, and strong community activities in pursuit of justice for all, particularly women of color. She is well regarded by her peers and colleagues, and a strong leader.” - Rachelle Chong, Former Commissioner, Federal Communications Commission and California Public Utilities Commissioner
Civic Engagement
Highly decorated as a public figure and board member of organizations, Commissioner Clopton supports the American Red Cross (Bay Area Chapter), National Association of the Administrative Law Judiciary Board of Governors, Jack and Jill of America, and the League of Women Voters (President), helping them grow, redefine processes, and adapt to evolving public attitudes to become more diverse, inclusive and equitable while still focused on the bottom line.
“Karen’s demonstrated commitment to public service made her an asset as Chief Administrative Law Judge at the California Public Utilities Commission and as Interim General Counsel. Karen has always promoted fairness, professionalism and diversity as well as a strong commitment to the consistent and objective application of the law.” - W. Anthony Colbert, Asst. Chief Admin. Law Judge at California Public Utilities Commission
Firsts
First African American Chief Administrative Law Judge
California Public Utilities Commission
First Chief of Operations and Corporate Council
SF State University Foundation
First African American Chief of Operations
Port of San Francisco
First African American Woman General Counsel
California Department of Corporations
First African American President
League of Women Voters, San Francisco
First African American Woman Commissioner
SF Civil Service Commission, Appointed by Mayors Jordan and Brown
Project Highlight
Buildings and Belonging: Mapping the African American Experience at Vassar College since 1861
As co-chair of the African American Alumnae/i of Vassar College, Commissioner Clopton recognized that the many contributions of African Americans to the school were neither promoted nor visible. As a result, she created and spearheaded the implementation of this ambitious exhibit, highlighting 13 campus buildings and sites where significant cultural, academic, and sociological history was made. Permanent campus markers, orientation events, admissions tours, and ongoing research are planned.
Affiliations & Organizations
