Biographical Profile

Monic Elizabeth Hargrove Lockett is a native of Newark, New Jersey, and was educated in the Newark Public School System. She attended Miller Street and Arts High School: America’s First High School of Performing Arts, majoring in Vocal Music. Upon graduation, Monic matriculated to Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Douglass College, graduating in 1987 with a degree in Journalism. In addition, Monic attended Jersey City State University (New Jersey City University) and obtained her certification as a Teacher of the Handicapped. Finally, monic graduated from Kean College (University) with a Master’s Degree in Counselor Education with a concentration in School Counseling.

Professionally, Monic began her career as an Editorial Assistant for W Magazine, followed by a position as a Fundraising Assistant with the New York Bar Association. After a few years of working in New York, Monic was employed by the same school system that educated and nurtured her. She became a Special Education Teacher under the Emergency Certification Program and taught at Peshine Avenue School for nine years. While there, she noticed many outside factors that negatively impacted students’ learning abilities. So, she furthered her education and obtained a Master’s Degree in Counselor Education. In addition, she received a Student Personnel Services Certification from the State of New Jersey. 

In February 1997, Monic became an Elementary School Counselor at Alexander Street School. She enjoyed coordinating programs, hosting parent workshops, individual and group sessions, and facilitating classroom guidance lessons for students in grades K-5. Next, Monic became a High School Counselor at University High School, where she served students in grades 7-12 and positively impacted their lives. In addition, she collaborated with College Admission Counselors to assist her students in attending college, the armed forces, and other post-secondary options. After two years of service as an Educator, Monic retired in June 2022. 

 Monic continues to work with graduating students from urban populations as a recent retiree. She assists and guides high school students along their post-secondary educational paths. In addition, she is an Upward Bound Counselor and Academic Coach at a college. 

Monic lives in Middlesex County and is the parent of one son, who attends Ramapo College in Mahwah, New Jersey.