We had the good fortune of connecting with Monica Moreno and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monica, what inspires you?
I am inspired by community members who are active and want to see the City of Dallas thrive. When they take ownership of their neighborhood and push forward to improve the quality of life of the place they call home. It’s motivating and I thrive on their energy.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I moved to Dallas after graduating from Texas Woman’s University in 2007 with a degree in Fashion Merchandising/ Marketing. With an interest in pursuing a career in fashion, I went on several interviews with many companies in the DFW area. Knowing that landing in the right place would take some time, I took what I thought would be a temporary position at a local engineering firm in Dallas. What none of us expected was the great recession of 2008. I went from preparing for interviews to trying to diversify my skillset in a different field. I was fortunate enough to keep employment and learn about many aspects of the engineering world. After five years and a few promotions, I still felt that I needed to be doing something more. I kept applying and going on interviews attempting to make my break into the fashion business, but was rejected more times than I would like to admit. In 2009 I decided that I would set roots in East Dallas and start serving the community I call home. I volunteered in neighborhood clean-ups, garage sales, silent auctions, home tours, plant sales, etc. During this time, my boyfriend (now husband) would actively participate in local elections. I always had an interest in government, I decided i would be a campaign volunteer for Adam Medrano. Mayor Pro Tem Medrano won his first elections in May of 2013. On election night, he said something to me that resonated with me. He said, “You never forget your first campaign, it’s special” Councilman Medrano was right, it was special, that campaign changed the course of my life when he asked me to join his team as a City Hall staffer. This was something “more” I was searching for.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Our Park and Trails System is top notch so going to Reverchon Park – Central Park of Dallas is a sight to see. The Heights in Lakewood for Brunch. The pancakes are a MUST! Palmeri Cafe in the Farmers Market for a coffee run and while at the Farmers Market you have to stop by the Whiskidesigns for their one of a kind stickers and greeting cards.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Mayor Pro Tem Adam Medrano. He took a chance on me when I had no experience and gave me an opportunity to make positive change in my community. Ms. Tanya Ragan, Wildcat Management. Ms. Ragan is the ultimate Boss Lady and a great mentor.  My momma, Maria Huerta for reminding me that the the sky is the limit. Anything is possible with hard work.

Image Credits
Ashley Long

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.