Monica Haslip, the Founder and Executive Director of Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center and Academy (LBP) in Chicago, is a visionary leader in the realms of arts, education, and social justice. Since its inception in 1994, LBP has stood as a beacon of innovative arts and cultural education, dedicated to empowering children and fostering a nurturing environment for their growth. Monica's guiding philosophy, deeply rooted in racial equity and the transformative power of “Love,” has been the cornerstone of the institution's success and impact.

Under Monica’s leadership, LBP took a significant leap in 2013 by establishing the Little Black Pearl Art and Design Academy (LBPA). Catering to 150 students in grades 9-12, this Chicago Public School focuses on art, design, and technology. LBPA is committed to disrupting the pipeline from classroom to prison and exemplifies the profound influence a community-based organization can have on providing effective, high-quality educational opportunities, particularly for inner-city youth.

Little Black Pearl stands as a hub for innovative learning and a platform for social justice, enriching the lives of both youth and adults in Chicago. Emphasizing racial equity, LBP addresses the digital divide and workforce development disparities through multiple initiatives, including Carver 47—a public juice and experiment café that aims to reshape narratives around African American history and icons like Dr. George Washington Carver, while also tackling work development initiatives.

Monica’s unwavering commitment to combating racism and youth violence has garnered national recognition. Honored as one of the White House Champions of Change by President Barack Obama, and as part of the National Forum on Youth Violence Prevention, her efforts have significantly contributed to addressing these critical issues through targeted programming and advocacy.

Her expertise extends beyond LBP; she is a national consultant, trainer, and racial healing practitioner, working with various institutions across the country. Monica is dedicated to implementing practices aimed at eliminating the belief in a hierarchy of human value. Her influence also extends to policy and strategic planning, evidenced by her roles on the Board of Directors for The Chicago Cook Workforce Development Board, and the Chicago Police Accountability Task Force, where she focuses on early intervention and addressing systemic racism.

Monica Haslip’s leadership at LBP and beyond exemplifies her commitment to fostering a more equitable and compassionate society, making her a respected and impactful figure in the fields of arts education, community development, and racial healing.