New York University's prestigious Tisch School of the Arts was the alma mater of Clare, who earned her BFA in just three years. Her academic achievements were impressive, and she quickly made a name for herself in the world of theater.
While studying in New York, Clare appeared in numerous stage plays, including a turn as Helen Keller in the stage version of "The Miracle Worker" and the lead role in "Light Up the Sky" at the acclaimed Lee Strasberg Theater Institute. She also appeared in "Beyond Therapy" at the John Houseman Theater and "Beginnings" at Circle in the Square.
Clare's early film credits included small and bit parts in films like "In & Out" (1997) and "Vig" (1998). However, it was her breakout role as the hard-nosed cheerleader "Courtney" in the blockbuster hit "Bring It On" (2000) that truly launched her career. The film, which co-starred Kirsten Dunst and Eliza Dushku, was a huge success and cemented Clare's status as a rising star.
In the years that followed, Clare continued to work in both major studio and independent films, appearing in a range of roles that showcased her versatility as an actress. Some of her most notable credits include Roger Avary's feature adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' "The Rules of Attraction" (2002),as well as the villainous lesbian seductress "Lucy In the Sky" in the film "D.E.B.S." (2003).
In addition to her film work, Clare has also appeared on television in a number of guest roles, including stints on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (1997),"Sabrina the Teenage Witch" (1996),"The Random Years" (2002),and "Tru Calling" (2003). She has also continued to work in theater, appearing in productions such as "The Gravedancers" (2006).
In addition to her acting career, Clare is also dedicated to philanthropy and has been involved in a number of charitable endeavors over the years. In 1992, she helped the Ohio's Recreation Unlimited, and in 1993, she served as a summer camp counselor at a YMCA camp for children with physical disabilities. She has also taught young adults with developmental disabilities at the Young Adult Institute in New York and has worked with a number of other organizations, including Children International and the AIDS Ride.
In 2006, Clare and her husband, film producer Brian R. Keathley, delivered school supplies to the small village of Tufi, Papua New Guinea, an experience that inspired her to launch her own charity, Giver, in 2012. Giver focuses on providing aid to children living in impoverished nations, and Clare is currently the official spokesperson for Kids 4 Kids, an organization that provides financial aid and toys for children surviving with cancer.
Today, Clare resides in Sherman Oaks with her husband and four children and has recently begun a career in directing. Despite her many accomplishments, she remains committed to using her platform to make a positive impact on the world.
