Monica Pemberton, AAiP

Monica Pemberton is a distinguished technology executive, author, speaker, and Chief Information Officer at the American Council on Education (ACE), where she leads enterprise technology strategy, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence initiatives that support the organization's mission. She is also the creator of the ARC Leadership Framework™; Authenticity, Resilience, and Connection, a leadership philosophy that equips individuals and organizations to lead with purpose, navigate change, and build meaningful relationships. With more than three decades of experience spanning higher education, nonprofit associations, government consulting, and information technology leadership, she has built a reputation for delivering secure, innovative, and people-centered technology solutions. In addition to her executive leadership at ACE, she serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland Global Campus, teaching cybersecurity in business and industry, and is the founder and CEO of Fenix Consulting, LLC, where she provides fractional CIO services to nonprofits and emerging organizations. Before joining ACE, Pemberton spent nearly 12 years at the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO), progressing from Director of Information Technology to Senior Director and ultimately Chief Technology Officer, where she spearheaded major digital transformation initiatives and aligned technology strategy with organizational goals. Earlier in her career, she held technology and project management roles supporting federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the General Services Administration (GSA). A graduate of the University of Maryland Global Campus, she earned both a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management and a Master of Science in Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. Her career has been recognized with numerous honors, including the University of Maryland Global Campus Distinguished Alumnus Award, Black Leaders Worldwide's Women to Watch recognition, and inclusion among the organization's Top Leaders. Beyond her executive responsibilities, Pemberton is a passionate advocate for responsible AI adoption, cybersecurity resilience, and greater representation of women and underrepresented communities in technology leadership. She serves on multiple nonprofit boards and advisory councils, including the Association of Women Technology Champions and NexxtOne Academy, where she mentors emerging professionals and supports STEM education initiatives. Through her consulting practice, volunteer service, and public speaking, she helps organizations leverage technology responsibly while empowering future technology leaders. Guided by the belief that artificial intelligence should augment—not replace—human potential, Monica Pemberton continues to champion innovation, inclusion, and digital excellence across the nonprofit and higher education sectors.