The year 2020 has presented unique challenges and interruptions across all aspects of our lives, but it does not stop us from celebrating the various accomplishments and achievements of women leaders of color! Throughout the month of August, we will spotlight these amazing women and share their unique perspectives, philosophies, and stories.

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As an associate marketing professor at California State University, Fresno, Dr. Monique Bell utilizes her background in marketing management at national and global firms in finance, education, and media to shape diverse, future business leaders.

In her time at Fresno State, she was honored as a Provost’s Promising New Faculty, completed an Advertising Education Foundation Visiting Professor fellowship, received teaching and research awards from Craig School of Business, worked with membership for the President’s Leadership Academy, and held the position as president of the university’s Black Faculty and Staff Association.

Monique conducted and published research in the Journal of Advertising and Journal of Business Research exploring how marketing influences and is influenced by cultural factors, including language, values, and ethnicity. She earned her doctoral degree from Drexel University, her master’s degree from the University of Baltimore, and her undergraduate degree from Morgan State University.

When asked about her journey to success, Dr. Monique Bell provided the following insights:

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Throughout your leadership journey, from your first job to your current position, what are some key lessons you’ve learned that shaped you as a leader?

Dr. Monique Bell: One of the key lessons I’ve learned over the years is that integrity is vital. It’s important to me that I always do my best work, whether as a fast food cashier (my first job), or in my current position as a professor. You never know what opportunities may arise from building a reputation for excellence and trustworthiness. I strive to instill that sense of pride in your work in my students, too.

What do you still want to accomplish?

MB: Business overall, and marketing in particular, can be so dynamic. What I treasure about being a business professor is that I am constantly learning right along with students as the marketplace evolves. I have always had a love for media, so I would be interested in becoming an entrepreneur within the podcast space and/or self-publishing fiction and non-fiction books.

Every person faces their own challenges and women of color are certainly no exception. What contributes to your resilience as a professional woman of color?

MB: Whenever I face challenges, I lean on my faith and I think of my ancestors who dreamed of being in the positions I now hold. My roots are really a sustaining force for me, from enduring the doctoral program, to moving across country and switching career paths. At the end of the day, it is critical to nourish yourself with positive reminders of your achievements and others who have paved the way.

What advice would you give to women of color who aspire to lead and make change?

MB: The best day to start is today! When you take just one small step toward your goal, it can provide you with the confidence to take the next one. Identify mentors who can support you. Even if you’re more reserved (like me), take a risk, volunteer and speak up.

What podcasts are you listening to and/or books are you reading?

MB: I enjoy listening to Still Processing, Nice White Parents, and Stuff You Missed in History Class. I’m reading, “These Ghosts are Family” by Maisy Card, and I look forward to reading “Caste” by Isabel Wilkerson.