Monica’s professional experience includes working as a journalist, a lawyer, and a law firm marketer. Prior to joining Stanford Law School in 2022, she worked for more than 11 years as the head of marketing and communications for the Palo Alto office of global law firm Skadden, Arps. She holds a JD from the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law and received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Kansas. She serves on the board of directors of Neighbors Abroad, a civic group that works closely with the City of Palo Alto and is charged with cultivating the city’s global sister city relationships. Monica is a dog lover who has volunteered for several rescue groups over the years. She personally advocates for so-called “backyard dogs” in her community and has secured the surrender of several such dogs, including her beloved white husky, Blue, who went from living in a tiny backyard cage to enjoying the good life with Monica’s family.