Monica Santos Honored as Remarkable Woman Improving New York
Congratulations to S:US Chief Program Officer Monica Santos for being recognized among City & State’s 2025 Above & Beyond: Women. The list identifies the 50 remarkable women who have a deep commitment to improving New York.
Monica leads a team of committed human services leaders managing developmental disabilities services, behavioral health housing, and community food security, ensuring quality housing, clinical, and support services for New Yorkers in need. Monica is a lifelong advocate for people with disabilities and other challenges, ensuring that everyone can lead a life with dignity and respect.
Monica was interviewed by City & State. See the full list here.
Monica Santos grew up with a grandmother who welcomed neighbors into their home and shared resources with those in need. This ingrained sense of service has propelled her into a career dedicated to supporting underserved populations through nonprofit leadership.
Facing challenges is part of the job, especially in securing resources from government and funders. Yet, Santos has learned the importance of work-life balance, especially for women in leadership roles. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she says, encouraging her staff to pursue personal growth alongside their professional commitments.
Her work inspires her daily. “My team are the dream-fulfillers,” Santos says, reflecting on their successes, like helping individuals transition from shelters to homes and creating adaptive programs for people with disabilities, including making a wish come true for a wheelchair user who dreamed of ice skating.
This past year, Santos and her team opened community fridges and two supportive housing projects in Brooklyn and the Bronx, aiming to eradicate homelessness and address food insecurity.
Though she has accomplished much, Santos remains humble, attributing her success to her team. “They inspire me to find resources for our initiatives, aiming to improve not just the lives of those in our programs but the broader community as well,” she says.
As a leader, Santos aims to be approachable and believes in the power of optimism and honesty. “What you see is what you get,” she says, ensuring those around her know where she stands.
The S:US board, staff and our community join in congratulating Monica Santos on this well-deserved recognition!