AJLI At-Large Member Dr. Monique Perry Graves is an award-winning education and social impact executive who considers education and community impact her calling. A major contributor to her community and civic leadership was nurtured by her long-standing membership in the Junior League of Charlotte.

During her time in the JLC prior to serving at the Association level she held roles serving on the Board of Directors as Nominating Chair, two-time Human Resources Council Manager, and Lead for the Women of Color affinity group.

After a decade plus career in higher education leadership, she transited to lead Teach for America's North Carolina regions as its first multi-region statewide ED. She continues to remain a thought and impact leader beyond her role at TFA serving on several boards and organizations including Education NC's Strategic Council, and the NC Governor's Task Force to support the recruitment and retention of diverse educators, and the Board of Advisors at Western Governors University NC.

Among many honors, she was named one of the 50 Most Influential Women of 2020 by The Mecklenburg Times and Innovator of the Year by the State of SC.

Monique earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from North Carolina Central University, her Master of Arts in Strategic Communications and Leadership from Seton Hall University, and her Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Florida.