Fox Cities News

Monique Johnson, a government major from Brooklyn, New York, has been named the senior class speaker for Lawrence University’s June 9 Commencement. Johnson, who plans to pursue law school after graduation, is among the youngest members of the 2024 graduating class. She arrived at Lawrence as a Posse Scholar in fall 2020 at the age of 16, having doubled up her sophomore and junior years of high school.

Johnson's transition from New York City to a small liberal arts college during the COVID-19 pandemic was significant. However, she found a supportive community at Lawrence. “Lawrence became the home I never knew I needed,” Johnson said. “I ended up spending my entire junior year here...I got to study abroad in Rome...It was everything that I was looking for in a university.”

Johnson will share her journey when she addresses her classmates and the Lawrence community at Commencement on June 9. She was selected as senior class speaker by a committee of faculty and staff from among 13 students who submitted speeches.

During her time at Lawrence, Johnson served in various roles including treasurer of Lawrence University Community Council (LUCC), Community Advisor in Residential Education, member of Beta Psi Nu, Black Student Union (BSU), African and Caribbean Union (ACU), and leader on the LU Cheer Team.

The Posse Foundation played a crucial role in bringing Johnson to Lawrence. The foundation partners with colleges to support students from diverse backgrounds with leadership potential. After being nominated for a Posse scholarship, Johnson underwent six months of preparation and chose Lawrence as her top choice despite not being able to visit due to the pandemic. Kate Zoromski, associate dean of academic success at Lawrence and mentor to Posse 14, left a strong impression on Johnson during pre-collegiate training sessions.

“Kate Zoromski came into our meetings...and the level of comfort that she brought in was amazing—that’s her aura,” Johnson said.

Zoromski praised Johnson's preparedness and focus on building her future: “She asked me questions most first-years don’t even think about until sophomore or junior year.”

Throughout her four years on campus, Johnson demonstrated determination and problem-solving skills. “When she sets her sights on a goal, stand back because nothing is going to stand in her way,” Zoromski said.

Johnson has formed a close bond with Zoromski over the years. “We’ve shared some tears...but we’ve also laughed until we cried,” Zoromski said.

After Commencement, Johnson plans to take a gap year to prepare for law school applications with an aim to enroll in fall 2025 and become a practicing attorney by age 24 focusing on criminal defense.

“I couldn’t be prouder of all her achievements at Lawrence—in and out of the classroom,” Zoromski said. “But I’m perhaps most proud of how she is not deterred by challenges that get in her way...Keep your eyes on Mo...she’s got a bright future ahead of her.”