Monique Chism

Dr. Monique M. Chism is the Under Secretary for Education at the Smithsonian Institution. In this role she oversees the Institution’s educational priorities to benefit learners of all ages. She is a transformative leader with over 25 years of experience in education and 16 years of experience leading complex organizations and projects. As a former teacher, state administrator, and federal policymaker she brings a unique lens and set of experiences to the work, with a focus on equity and systems change. Previously, Chism was the Vice President for education policy and strategic initiatives at the American Institutes for Research and prior to that she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs at the U.S. Department of Education. She also worked at the Illinois State Board of Education and taught for 8 years. Chism holds a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University and a master’s degree from Central Michigan University, both in interpersonal and public communication, and a doctorate from Michigan State University in American studies.