About Monica
Monica Robinson is a lifelong Harrisonburg community member whose public service is guided by listening, partnership, and a belief that every resident deserves a real voice in city decisions.
Monica’s connection to Harrisonburg is personal and longstanding. She brings a deep respect for the people, neighborhoods, institutions, and stories that make the city home.
Her work brings together public service, education, community leadership, and love for preserving local history—because a stronger future depends on valuing the people and experiences that shaped Harrisonburg.
Education
Monica taught in public and private schools for more than 15 years. She understands the importance of connecting schools with businesses, nonprofits, and local colleges. As a JMU grad, she pushes her belief that education is a bridge to opportunity, civic participation, and a more resilient region
Leadership record
Monica Robinson serves on Harrisonburg City Council for the 2022–2026 term and is Executive Director of the Shenandoah Valley Black Heritage Project. Her public work brings residents, institutions, and community partners together around practical local priorities.
Leadership record
Council Member for the 2022–2026 term, with Council representation on the Social Services Advisory Board, City/JMU Liaison Committee, CDBG Selection Committee, Community Criminal Justice Board, City/HRHA Liaison, and Ordinance Advisory Committee.
View Monica’s City Council profileBoard Member for Human Development & Education with the Virginia Municipal League, a current member of the National League of Cities Race, Equity, and Leadership program, Women in Municipal Government, and a member of the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (NBC-LEO).
Executive Director of the Shenandoah Valley Black Heritage Project, connecting Harrisonburg’s history to the people and conversations shaping its future. As a leading stakeholder in Community Connectors, funded by Smart Growth America and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Monica helped address the local trauma caused by urban renewal. This work led to the Northeast Neighborhood Small Area Plan, which will guide future decisions for the area.
Learn more about Community Connectors
Community involvement
Monica’s community service includes four terms as President of the Harrisonburg-Rockingham NAACP (2002–2004 and 2016–present), Chair of the Harrisonburg African American Festival (1998–2014), Board service with Second Homne, and Board service with Our Community Place (2020–present). She has also represented the Blue Ridge Area with the Fresh Air Fund since 1998 , the North East Neighborhood Association, and local education, neighborhood, and restorative justice efforts.
Monica is continuing to build a campaign centered on neighbors, shared responsibility, and the future Harrisonburg can create together.
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