My Story

I’m Monica—a facilitator, strategist, and a firm believer in the power of purpose-driven leadership.

Long before I had the titles or degrees, I had a front-row seat to what leadership, service, and integrity truly looked like. I was raised in a loving home grounded in faith, family, and hard work. My parents spent most of their lives in physically demanding jobs, but that never stopped them from showing up—fully—for both our biological and church families. My father came alive behind the grill at family gatherings, and my mother wore many hats at church, serving tirelessly even after long workdays.

They always told me to do my best and that doing well in school mattered. Those values stuck, and they continue to guide how I live, lead, and serve.

As a kid, I didn’t fully grasp how the world was labeling me—by race, gender, income, or the fact that I’d be the first in my family to attend college. But as I advanced academically and professionally, I began to notice the pattern: I was often the only one like me in the room. I’ve come to see that as no accident—it's all been divinely orchestrated. My mom’s words often come to mind: “To whom much is given, much is required. - Luke 12:48” That belief fuels my drive to support and uplift others, especially those just starting in new professional journeys.

That sense of responsibility shapes how I show up in the world. Whether I’m helping a nonprofit team align around a bold new direction or partnering with a leader to navigate tough decisions, I lead with clarity, care, and a focus on uncovering actionable solutions. I believe in creating space for people to connect, reflect, and do the work that really matters.

Currently, I’m in the final phase of my Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, writing my dissertation on leadership teams in community colleges—a topic that speaks to broader truths about collaboration, equity, and impact across all types of organizations. My approach is deeply informed by my lived experience, faith, and professional path. I don’t separate who I am from what I do.

Outside of work, I’m a proud wife, mom, sister, aunt, niece, and friend. Which means weekends are typically filled with sporting events, church or some sort of gathering. And lately? I’ve fallen back in love with the WNBA, the energy of women’s college ball, and the brilliance of Unrivaled. It’s one of the many ways I make space to unwind—because rest and joy are just as essential as strategy.