Before Monique joined the team at The Hartford, she was well aware of the leading insurance company’s reputation. Headquartered in her hometown of Hartford, Connecticut, the company was known for its long-standing integrity, human-centric service, and community involvement. Additionally, friends and family members who worked there spoke highly of The Hartford’s supportive, collaborative culture and commitment to continuous learning.
Later, when Monique was considering a full-time position at The Hartford, she also realized that the company’s dedication to ethical practices and social responsibility aligned with her values, purpose, and professional goals.
“These factors—along with the positive interactions I had with the team during the hiring process—confirmed that The Hartford would be a great fit,” she says.
Monique has worked at The Hartford for more than six years and manages the Adaptive Sports Program as part of the Enterprise Communications team. Through her work, she makes a real impact that extends beyond her direct team and the larger business enterprise. Here, she shares what she’s responsible for in her role, how the company enables career growth, and why she’s inspired by the mission of The Hartford’s Adaptive Sports Program.
In 2018, you joined The Hartford as a senior public relations specialist. Three years later, you stepped into your current role leading the Adaptive Sports Program. How has the company encouraged your professional development and growth? How has leadership directly supported your internal transition?
The Hartford offers and sponsors various professional development programs and trainings, personal branding sessions, and sponsored networking events. I’ve also had the opportunity to moderate and participate in panel discussions where I shared my career journey.
Mentorship, sponsorship, and coaching from senior leaders have been invaluable in navigating my career path and developing leadership skills. The company’s culture of promoting from within has encouraged my advancement. My leaders provided the necessary resources and training, which helped me adapt to my new responsibilities. Additionally, their openness to feedback and willingness to offer guidance fostered a supportive environment.
What are your core responsibilities for The Hartford’s Enterprise Communications team? Why does this work excite or inspire you?
I manage The Hartford’s Adaptive Sports Program, enhancing access to adaptive sports and equipment nationwide. My responsibilities include executing public and community relations events to elevate the company’s brand through social media, news releases, and media pitching. I also manage media interviews, relationships with nonprofit partners, contract and expense management, and coordinate appearances by Team Hartford athletes—world champions who serve as our brand ambassadors and help raise awareness about the need for more equity in sports. To do this, I collaborate with the marketing, communications, and line of business teams.
This role excites me because it allows me to shape the company’s narrative, build relationships, and drive positive change. I’m passionate about storytelling and engaging with the community; seeing the direct impact of our initiatives is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the dynamic nature of this role keeps me constantly learning and adapting, which I find both challenging and fulfilling.
What’s your favorite part about working in a leadership role at The Hartford?
My favorite aspect is the opportunity to make a significant impact on both my team and the organization. I oversee a national philanthropic program designed to enhance the company’s brand and reputation within the community. This involves managing relationships with colleagues, nonprofit partners, agents, brokers, brand ambassadors, media partners, and other supporters in the adaptive sports community.
I find immense pleasure in mentoring and helping others reach their full potential at The Hartford. I also value the collaborative environment that fosters innovative thinking and problem-solving. Contributing to the company’s strategic goals and witnessing the positive outcomes of our collective efforts is incredibly inspiring.
You manage The Hartford’s Adaptive Sports Program, which aims to enable youth and adults with disabilities by making adaptive sports and equipment more accessible. Why does the mission of this program resonate with you?
The mission of The Hartford’s Adaptive Sports Program is grounded in advancing access and opportunities. Growing up, I was able to experience the transformative power of sports in fostering confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. Learning about adaptive sports and appreciating their impact on individuals with disabilities has inspired me—especially the stories of athletes who overcame significant challenges to achieve their goals. By providing adaptive sports equipment and grants, the program promotes a message of open access and opportunity for all.
Through your work, you are raising awareness about adaptive sports and athletes. Why is representation in media important?
Representation in journalism and media is vital because it helps challenge stereotypes, promote understanding, and provide a more accurate portrayal of society. When people see themselves reflected in media, it reinforces the idea that their stories and contributions matter.
How has The Hartford fostered a differentiated culture?
Our longstanding commitment to an exceptional culture reflects our values and helps every employee be their best self Working for a company that supports employee resource groups (ERGs) that are open to all employees—including Black Insurance Professional Network (BIPN) and sponsor organizations such as the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA)—has created a sense of belonging for me. These groups focus on professional development, employee engagement, and business impact
I also feel valued for my work in these groups to drive business value. Along with several BIPN leaders and members, I was recognized with the Chairman’s Award—our company’s highest honor—for my leadership, resiliency, and strength in producing powerful programming that benefited all employees.
What advice would you offer to those striving to break into the media and public relations industry? What valuable lessons have you learned that can help them be successful?
Breaking into the media and public relations industry can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. My advice is to build a strong network by connecting with mentors who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities. Don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals you admire. Join professional organizations that offer networking opportunities, resources, and a sense of community.
It’s also important to continuously develop your skills. Taking advantage of free workshops, webinars, and online courses has been instrumental in my growth.
Outside of your professional role, are you a sports fan? Did you play any sports when you were growing up?
Yes—I’m a huge sports fan, especially of women’s sports. Basketball is my true love. I started playing competitively at six years old and continued through college. I also coached middle and high school girls’ basketball for over 15 years.
Additionally, I played field hockey and lacrosse in high school and started a youth lacrosse program in Hartford. Sports introduced me to people from diverse backgrounds, creating pride and a sense of community. Playing team sports taught me the importance of leadership, collaboration, and teamwork—skills I’ve transferred to real-life scenarios, such as effective communication, supporting others, and appreciating each team member’s strengths.