Lora Klenke

Lora Klenke has over 25 years of experience in global development, engagement, research, and strategic partnership building. She serves as the Managing Director of International Advancement for the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association. In this role, she spearheads efforts to engage University of Wisconsin-Madison alumni living internationally, building on an advancement model that aligns alumni influence and support with the university’s top priorities, including its global profile, international education, research, and corporate relations.

Previously, Lora was the Vice President of International Business Development at the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, responsible for the state’s export and foreign direct investment growth strategy. In this role, she advised business and government leaders on global business opportunities, trade issues, and diplomatic protocol. She also led global agricultural economic development programs for the State of Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection, executing numerous trade initiatives in countries such as Korea, China, Japan, India, Mexico, Canada, and Turkey.

Her past board and advisory council appointments include the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association, the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, the Wisconsin China Initiative, the Madison International Trade Association, the U.S. Dairy Export Council, the Wisconsin Farm to School Advisory Council, Global Business Resource Center, the U.S. Department of Commerce District Export Council, and the Executive Advisory Council for the Food Export Association–Midwest.

Having lived and worked in Japan for several years, Lora assisted Japanese companies with exports to the United States and served as a cultural liaison. She holds a B.A. in International Relations from UW–Madison, with an emphasis in East Asian Studies.