Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin Inc.
09/23/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/24/2024 08:06
Clayton Pryor Receives Crain’s Chicago Business ‘Notable Black Leader’ Recognition
September 23, 2024
Chief Mission Officer, Clayton Pryor, is named a 'Notable Black Leader' in the greater Chicago area by Crain's Chicago Business Magazine - one of the nation's top regional business publications. Clayton is recognized for his career achievements, impact within workforce development and contributions to the Chicago community.
Read Clayton's 'Notables' profile in Crain's September issue*
*A subscription is required to access the article.
Driving Goodwill's Mission Forward
Clayton joined Goodwill in October 2021 responsible for mission strategy and growth of programs and services in 23 counties across Greater Chicago and Milwaukee. He oversees teams that deepen local support through fund development, youth engagement, community relations and investments, mission operations and integration, and Goodwill TalentBridge, a staffing and recruiting firm.
Clayton has been integral in driving Goodwill's mission forward to help remove barriers, create opportunities, connect people to resources, and assist Goodwill in serving 50,000+ people through employment, programs and services. Through his leadership, Goodwill has launched new workforce development programs, including those that helped 85 teens and young adults find employment throughout the Chicagoland in the inaugural year. In addition, Goodwill launched an Employee Empowerment Network, extending public services to employees to reduce barriers to success and navigate concerns including economic stability. In 2023, the program enrolled 248 employees to help overcome personal and professional challenges.
"Clayton is an exceptional leader and workforce development champion with a devotion to strengthening communities," said Jackie Hallberg, President and CEO, Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago. "His passion for developing integrated community partnerships fuels innovation at Goodwill, which helps advance our mission, increase equitable career opportunities, build a more diverse and vibrant workforce, and grow local talent for a thriving economy."
A Passion For People & Workforce Development
Clayton has spent nearly two-decades focusing on job creation, neighborhood revitalization and building sustainable communities. He's led the creation of local, regional, and national initiatives that build career pathways, advance skilled workforces and promote investment in equitable outcomes. He's managed multi-million-dollar portfolios dedicated to creating career pipelines in underserved communities by offering job skills and training to prepare candidates for a variety of industry sectors.
Clayton is committed to civic engagement and supporting underserved communities. Serving on the board of directors for Springboard to Success, he supports fundraising efforts and develops connections and partnerships, increasing youth access to continuing education. Through IDeaL Education Foundation, Pryor has mentored Chicago-area youth in navigating challenges and accessing growth opportunities. He's volunteered with several organizations including SIUC Minority Advisory board, mentoring Greater Chicago undergraduate students, and Big Brothers Big Sisters - Heart of Illinois.
Meet Goodwill's Leadership Team