Monica Garcia

Hope Chicago Scholars Program Advisor & Coordinator

Monica is a Chicago native, born and raised in the Gage Park neighborhood. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Upon graduation, she returned to Chicago to serve the city's youth in the Chicago Public Schools system. Her career began with non-profits, City Year Chicago and Metropolitan Family Services before her move to college access TRiO programs. Now at Loyola University Chicago, Monica brings a deep commitment to student success and draws from a broad range of experiences to support college students in achieving their unique goals. Monica serves as the Hope Chicago Scholars Academic Advisor and Coordinator. As a first-generation college graduate, she is especially passionate about empowering and uplifting students through meaningful mentorship and guidance. In her pursuit of education, Monica is currently working towards a master's degree in public administration with a concentration in educational leadership to further her impact in the field.