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Monique M. Maldonado

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By Glynn Cosker
Managing Editor, In Homeland Security

In Homeland Security is proud to announce and introduce our new regular contributor – Dr. Monique M. Maldonado.

IHS new contributor Monique Maldonado
Dr. Monique M. Maldonado

Monique is an award-winning business executive and the founder and CEO of MD Educational Consulting Firm LLC (MD ED) and is also an associate professor for the School of Security and Global Studies at American Public University System.

Monique served for 13 years in the United States Air Force – specializing in administration, communications and security management. She served as the Chief of Special Security and Enlisted Military Assistant to Defense Secretaries Ash Carter, Christine Fox and Robert Work. She was also the Military Executive Assistant to the Joint Improvised-Threat Defeat Agency Director, Lieutenant John Johnson. Monique has published numerous articles about homeland security, national security and public policy.

Monique has a B.A. in Homeland Security from American Military University, a Master of Criminal Justice from Boston University, and a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration with a specialization in terrorism, mediation, and peace from Walden University. Her passion for securing the homeland began in the early 2000s.

“I joined the Air Force August 16, 2001, three weeks before 9/11 and knew it was a calling to defend my country,” stated Monique. “Even though I didn’t know what I was getting into at the time, I wanted to take a chance and do something that was bigger than myself: protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

“Those who are in the homeland and national security fields know it’s not a “sexy” or high-paying job, so they do it because they care about America, our freedoms, and protections.” – Dr. Monique M. Maldonado.

In 2006, Monique was selected as the Chief Special Security Officer for the 18th Wing (Kadena Air Base, Japan), where she managed classified programs for the largest Combat Air Force in the Pacific. “The job was very rewarding and I was able to showcase my abilities as a leader and as a protector of national security,” said Monique of her experience.

Currently, Monique teaches classes at American Military University.

“I want my students to learn everything that I know for their professional and educational growth,” stated Monique. “I’m very passionate about the criminal justice, homeland security, and national security fields because – as a military service member – protecting national security was always my number one responsibility. I took the job very seriously and loved it so much that I continued my education so I could share with others the importance of protecting the United States.”

In the long term, Monique wants to create a global platform for active duty service members and veterans, establish a military support foundation, and eventually become U.S. Secretary of Defense.

We are proud and honored to have Monique as our latest expert contributor. Look out for her inaugural article later today.