Meet Monica Minor-Exum

Monica was raised in Baltimore County, Maryland, by parents deeply involved in the field of education—her dad, a school principal, and her mom, an elementary school teacher—she has accumulated over 20 years of education experience at various levels. Despite her parents' advice against following in their footsteps, Monica was drawn to the field. She started as an elementary school teacher, transitioned to higher education, and eventually joined the federal government to focus on developing higher education programs in defense security. Her expertise spans accreditation, curriculum development, instruction and assessment, student development, professional development, institutional effectiveness, and strategic planning.

Monica's career success, though remarkable, has not been without its challenges. As an educated black woman, she has encountered professional obstacles. Furthermore, as a woman of color with a reading disability, which she later discovered to be a form of dyslexia, she chose not to disclose it to her colleagues, fearing further backlash. Instead, she worked exceptionally hard, drawing strength from mentors and the lessons from her dad's experiences as a principal of a predominately white school. Monica's journey is a testament to her resilience and determination. Through her experiences, she has learned to value her worth despite her reading disability, which has empowered her to inspire the next generation of black women to let their 'little lights shine.' Beyond her professional life, Monica's dedication to her family is unwavering. She is a devoted wife and mother who finds joy in spending time with her loved ones and engaging in activities like tennis and traveling.

Personal Milestones

Where are you from?

Baltimore/Bowie

What was your first job?

Weis grocery store as a cashier

One thing most people don't know about you:

When I was younger, I wanted to be a backup dancer for Janet Jackson. 

What is your favorite book or podcast?

The Color Purple, TEAgif, and Breakfast Club podcast

What motivates you to pursue current and new passions?

I am motivated by any opportunity that will allow me to utilize my creativity to solve problems. 

What is your biggest accomplishment at this point in your life?

I am proud to be a graduate of three HBCUs. I received my bachelor's at Norfolk State University, my master's at Bowie State University, and my doctorate at Morgan State University. However, aside from anything I've achieved thus far, my greatest accomplishment is being DJ's mom. I always wanted to be a mom but was afraid I would not be good enough. As I navigated through motherhood, I realized God blessed me with one of His angels, and I needed to have faith that He would not grant me this opportunity for nothing. I was also blessed with a great husband by my side to navigate the parenthood journey in raising our son. 

What is one thing you know now that you wish you knew at 18 years old?

I would say to my 18-year-old self, "This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine." Never dim your light to accommodate others' insecurities. People may be intimidated by your abilities, knowledge, and even your warm spirit. It is okay to be the smartest one in the room. 

Professional Milestones

Is what you do now what you always wanted to do as a child?

When asked what I wanted to be growing up, I would respond," A jack teacher."  I was good at playing jacks, so I wanted to teach others how to play. 

What inspired you to go into your industry?

I enjoy working in environments where I can utilize my creativity. I enjoy curriculum development. 

Describe in one word what it's like to be a woman of color in your industry.

Exhausting

Was there ever a time you faced challenges in your professional life? How did you overcome them?

I have faced numerous challenges in my professional life, especially as an educated woman of color. It has been challenging to find my place in the professional world. I have often felt overlooked and expected to do all the work. However, with time, I have learned to stand up for my worth and communicate my value to others. My dad, who worked as a black principal in a predominantly white school, shared his experiences of adversity with me, which has helped me navigate through my own challenges. In addition to the challenges I faced as an educated woman of color, I also have a reading disability, which I later found out is a form of dyslexia. I have never disclosed this to my colleagues, believing it would be another excuse to hold me back. Consequently, I have worked exceptionally hard, always striving to prove myself. Through it all, I have leaned on mentors and the lessons from my dad's experiences to push through and succeed.

Additionally, I have been fortunate to have the support of some amazing black women who have helped me manage my expectations and focus on personal growth.

What's next for you in your career?

My next career move is to plan for retirement and continue to be a college professor. I am excited about the opportunities that retirement will bring and look forward to continuing to inspire and educate others as a professor.

What advice would you give a young woman of color trying to enter or advance in your industry?

You are enough. Understand you would not be in your position if you were not ten times better. Trust your instincts. Learn all you can about your position, and always look ahead for growth opportunities. 

Who/what do you attribute your success to?

My dad is one who I attribute to my success. I was a spoiled little girl who was comfortable living off my parents. I was not planning on attending college, but he knew my destiny was great. He sat me down in high school, wrote out all the household bills, divided them in half, and gave me half the bills to pay. I could pay half the bills or go to college.  I decided to be cheap and go to college. Wow, it paid off. I loved college and started on my destiny. Sometimes, we need to be pushed past complacency, and I am grateful that my dad gave me the push I needed then.

Are you involved in any organizations, associations, clubs, or groups?

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated

Connect with Monica

LinkedIn: Dr. Monica Minor-Exum

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