MONICA's guiding philosophy, deeply rooted in racial equity and the transformative power of “Love,” has been the cornerstone of the institution's success and impact.

Little Black Pearl stands as a hub for innovative learning and a platform for social justice, enriching the lives of both youth and adults in Chicago. Emphasizing racial equity, LBP addresses the digital divide and workforce development disparities through multiple initiatives, including Carver 47—a public juice and experiment café that aims to reshape narratives around African American history and icons like Dr. George Washington Carver, while also tackling workforce development initiatives with the Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation.

Monica's unwavering commitment to combating racism and youth violence has garnered national recognition. Honored as one of the White House Champions of Change by President Barack Obama, and as part of the National Forum on Youth Violence Prevention, her efforts have significantly contributed to addressing these critical issues through targeted programming and advocacy.

Her expertise extends beyond LBP; she is a national consultant, trainer, and racial healing practitioner, working with various institutions across the country. Monica is dedicated to implementing practices aimed at eliminating the belief in a hierarchy of human value. Her influence also extends to policy and strategic planning, evidenced by her roles on the Board of Directors for Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation, and the Chicago Police Accountability Task Force, where she focuses on early intervention and addressing systemic racism.

Monica’s leadership at LBP and beyond exemplifies her commitment to fostering a more equitable and compassionate society, making her a respected and impactful figure in the fields of arts education, community development, and racial healing.