Women To Watch 2025 honoree Monica Pemberton

Monica Pemberton is a dynamic leader who has seamlessly blended her technical expertise, passion for education, and dedication to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of her life. As the Vice President and Chief Information Officer (CIO) at the American Council on Education (ACE), Monica is at the forefront of leveraging technology to optimize IT operations and deliver secure, innovative solutions that drive organizational success.

Her career spans impactful roles in technology consulting, including the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), where she contributed to critical government initiatives. Before joining ACE, Monica served as the Chief Technology Officer for the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO), where she spearheaded transformational IT projects that enhanced efficiency and operational excellence.

Monica’s academic journey includes earning both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science from the University of Maryland Global Campus. She is a lifelong learner who continues to expand her skills and knowledge, including completing certifications in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace and Inclusive and Ethical Leadership. Born and raised with a rich Afro-Latina heritage, Monica’s upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of community and the importance of representation. As the President of the Blacks in Technology (BIT) Alexandria, Virginia chapter and a board member of the Association of Women Technology Champions (AWTC), she dedicates herself to creating opportunities for underrepresented groups in technology. Monica’s mentoring efforts through the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) allow her to inspire and guide the next generation of Black technologists, ensuring they can thrive in STEM fields.

A recipient of the prestigious 2023 Diversity Women Media Elite 100 award, Monica exemplifies what it means to champion inclusion within her organization and across industries. She is passionate about using technology as a gateway to economic stability, particularly for those who may not have access to traditional higher education. Her work emphasizes that technology careers can provide life-changing opportunities for individuals to build secure and fulfilling futures.

Monica’s work isn’t limited to her professional accomplishments. She is family-oriented and draws strength and inspiration from her loved ones. She enjoys mentoring, traveling, and engaging in hobbies that nurture her creativity and spirituality. A firm believer in the power of connection, she values opportunities to engage with peers, uplift communities, and continually learn and grow.

Looking ahead, Monica is driven by a vision to expand her impact in IT operations and technology by championing inclusive practices and empowering diverse communities. She is committed to writing a book on leadership designed to inspire and guide young adults and professionals as they navigate their careers. Monica also aims to promote technology careers as a viable and accessible pathway for economic empowerment, particularly for individuals unable to pursue traditional college education.

Monica Pemberton’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to leaving the world better than she found it. Whether through her career, humanitarian efforts, or personal pursuits, Monica inspires others to dream big, work hard, and lead with purpose.