Monieke McNeil is an accomplished community leader, researcher, advocate, and Executive Research & Program Evaluation Consultant with Grace Wellness Institute. Born and raised in Massachusetts, with deep roots in the Boston and Salem communities, Monieke brings more than two decades of leadership experience and a strong commitment to civic engagement, socioeconomic equity, community development, and advocacy for underserved populations.

She holds a Master of Public Affairs and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Salem State University. Her professional and community work has focused on research, program evaluation, stakeholder engagement, resource development, needs assessment, public service, and strengthening communities through informed, data-driven solutions.

Monieke specializes in evaluation research methods, helping organizations better understand the populations they serve through surveys, community feedback, data collection, stakeholder engagement, and needs assessments. She has a unique ability to translate information gathered directly from individuals and communities into meaningful findings that support program development, strategic planning, resource allocation, and sustainable community-based solutions.

Her leadership extends well beyond research. Monieke has served on numerous community boards and advisory groups and has held leadership roles focused on strengthening families, expanding access to resources, and addressing social and economic inequities. She previously served as Vice President with the Socio Economic Development Foundation of Boston, Inc., where her work reflected a commitment to restoring hope and opportunity in communities facing barriers related to employment, healthcare, education, and access to essential resources.

Monieke is also a Salem State University Civic Engagement Hall of Fame honoree, recognized for her dedication to civic involvement, social justice, and community service. Her work has included serving as Director of Intake and Assessment for Second Chance for Youthful Offenders, as well as participating in community and public advisory initiatives.

Her commitment to preserving history and strengthening community representation is also reflected in her involvement with the Charlotte Forten Memorial Project Advisory Group. Monieke helped support efforts to honor the life and legacy of Charlotte Forten through the development and dedication of a life-sized bronze monument in Salem, Massachusetts. She also participated in the dedication ceremony and has contributed to media and documentary work highlighting Forten’s historical significance.

Monieke’s experience also includes work in media, including serving as an FM radio host for “Up Close with Monieke McNeil,” where she used her platform to elevate community issues, share information, and encourage civic engagement.

At Grace Wellness Institute, Monieke brings both professional expertise and a heart for advocacy. Her areas of service include mental health advocacy, special needs parent support, substance abuse family support, community and stakeholder engagement, evaluation research, and resource development.

As a parent and advocate, Monieke also brings a compassionate perspective to families navigating special needs and other complex life circumstances. Her approach combines research, lived understanding, community connection, and practical problem-solving to help identify gaps, uncover needs, and strengthen programs and resources designed to serve people.

Monieke’s work reflects a lifelong commitment to ensuring that community voices are not only heard, but represented, respected, and used to help shape meaningful programs, informed decisions, and sustainable solutions.