Monica transitioned to her new position as Program Administrator for both Lake and McHenry Counties in 2024.  This newly created position supports and supervises the Community Outreach Workers and Program Coordinators who are making a difference in our communities. 

Prior, Monica enjoyed being one of our Community Outreach Workers for 6 years. She provided nutrition education programs in Lake County with her focus community being the Zion area.  Monica provided researched based programs and information with the goal of reaching all family members in different settings including schools, churches, health department, food pantries, neighborhood locations, etc., while sharing consistent nutrition messages in engaging and interactive formats. This experience prepared her to successfully serve as the Program Administrator.

Healthy communities are created by ensuring that education, messaging, services and opportunities are available to everyone.  Providing that education and helping to make people feel confident about their healthy choices for themselves and their families is what energizes Monica in her past and current role. 

Monica is an alumnus of University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic Recreation.  Prior to that she attended Moraine Valley Community College in Cook County.

Previous work experiences include:  Northern Illinois Food Bank-Fundraising and Development, The Cultural & Civic Center of Round Lake Beach-Director, Round Lake Area School District-substitute teacher, Round Lake Area Chamber of Commerce-Director, The Round Lake Area Park District as Superintendent and the first staff hired to establish the Special Recreation Association of Round Lake and Zion.

Volunteer experiences include St. Vincent DePaul Home Visitor and Treasurer, St. Bede Parish Council, Fox Lake Community Garden Committee, Girl Scout leader for 11 years, Parent Association Board; Athletic Association Board

Favorite quote:  Health care is vital to all of us some of the time, but public health is vital to all of us all of the time! C. Everett Koop