Monique Norington Joseph is an advocate, author, educator, community engagement professional, and proud mother dedicated to building stronger communities through partnership, service, and leadership. She currently serves as a Service Program Manager in the Steans Center for Community-Based Service Learning at DePaul University, where she works to connect students, faculty, and community organizations through meaningful service-learning, civic engagement, and community-based learning experiences.
A proud DePaul alumna, Monique earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication and her Master of Science in Public Administration. Prior to her transition into higher education and community engagement, she built a successful career as a marketing and brand development executive with Fortune 500 companies in the oil and gas industry. She later founded her own public relations and strategic communications firm, leading brand development, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach initiatives for corporate, nonprofit, and civic organizations. This unique blend of business, communications, and community leadership continues to inform her work today.
Monique is an award-winning children’s author, nonprofit founder, and longtime advocate for women, children, and families. For more than fifteen years, her community engagement and advocacy efforts have focused on advancing maternal health, expanding access to education, supporting working families, and creating pathways for underserved communities to thrive. She believes deeply in the power of education, storytelling, and community partnership as tools for transformation and social change.
Beyond her professional role, Monique serves as a member of the DePaul Staff Council and Chair of DPUBLIC, DePaul’s employee resource group for Black faculty and staff. She is also an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Chicago Metropolitan Chapter, where she continues her commitment to leadership, mentorship, civic engagement, and service.
As the proud mother of a 12-year-old daughter, Zoie, an award-winning young author and musician, Monique draws daily inspiration from the next generation of leaders and changemakers. Through her professional and personal experiences, she remains committed to building bridges between universities, organizations, and communities while creating opportunities that empower individuals, strengthen families, and foster lasting impact for future generations.