Today we’d like to introduce you to Monique Dennis, PsyD.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story begins with the values my parents instilled in me—service, giving back, and making a difference. Those principles have guided every chapter of my life. I’ve always been passionate about public service, community building, and championing others, especially women.
In 2010, I founded The Freedom Heart Foundation, dedicated to empowering domestic violence survivors. Our work goes beyond outreach—we provide in-reach by entering Miami-Dade County shelters and delivering a focused curriculum I created to help women rebuild their lives and move forward with confidence.
My professional journey started even earlier. In the 1990s, I launched my own public relations agency, Dennis Communications N/K/A Command Presence PR Agency, and became the only Black-owned PR firm on Brickell Avenue under the age of 30. Over the past 25+ years, I’ve earned recognition as a leading communicator, specializing in crisis management, executive communications, and shaping public perception through strategic outreach.
In 2023, I expanded my mission to empower women in business by founding The She CEO Collective, a platform designed to equip women entrepreneurs with knowledge, skills, and a supportive circle of peers who champion each other’s success and in 2021 in the height of COVID-19, I co-founded South Dade Connections, dedicated to supporting minority-owned businesses in South Dade by promoting growth, expansion, and opportunity.
Whether in public service or public relations, my career has always centered around people. I’m a communication expert and change agent with a unique ability to connect authentically—some call it charisma, but I call it meeting people where they are. My passions as a philanthropist, PR maven, and community builder all stem from one mission: to empower, uplift, and create lasting impact. I am also a member of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Greater Miami Chapter of the Links, Inc.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting young as an entrepreneur in South Florida meant navigating a constantly evolving business landscape while proving myself in spaces where women—and especially women of color—were often underrepresented.
When I launched my PR agency in the 90s, I was the only Black-owned firm on Brickell Avenue under the age of 30. That came with challenges: breaking through barriers of perception, earning trust in high-stakes environments, and securing a seat at tables where decisions were being made. I had to work twice as hard to demonstrate not only competence but excellence, all while staying true to my values of community impact.
South Florida’s growth brought opportunities, but also fierce competition and shifting dynamics. I learned to adapt quickly, innovate, and build relationships that were authentic and strategic. As a woman, ensuring I had a voice meant leaning into confidence, preparation, and resilience—because representation matters when decisions affect communities.
Those struggles shaped me into the leader I am today: a communicator, a change agent, and someone committed to creating spaces for others. That’s why initiatives like The Freedom Heart Foundation, South Dade Connections and The She CEO Collective exist—because I know firsthand how vital it is to have support, knowledge, and advocacy on the journey.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve been able to blend the art of public relations with a deep commitment to public service initiatives that improve people’s lives.
I’m known for being a people-first communicator and a change agent who brings authenticity and a high EQ factor to everything I do. Professionally, I’ve built a reputation as a public relations strategist with over 25 years of experience in crisis management, executive communications, and shaping public perception. People trust me to deliver clarity and confidence in ways that resonate deeply and in high-stakes situations.
Beyond business, I’m known for my commitment to service and empowerment. Through The Freedom Heart Foundation, I’ve become a voice for domestic violence survivors, creating programs that help women rebuild their lives. And with The She CEO Collective, I’m recognized as a champion for women in business—equipping them with tools, knowledge, and a supportive network to thrive. Through South Dade Connections, I’ve worked to shine a spotlight on a community that is often overlooked, bringing it the resources and visibility it truly deserves.
At the core, I’m known for my ability to connect with people authentically and inspire others. Whether in a boardroom, a shelter, or a networking event, I bring charisma, empathy, and strategy together to create meaningful change.
What sets me apart is the intersection of authenticity, adaptability, and impact. I’m not just a communicator—I’m a connector and a catalyst for change. My ability to meet people where they are, understand their needs, and craft strategies that resonate across diverse audiences has been the cornerstone of my success.
I combine over 25 years of experience in public relations with a deep commitment to service and empowerment. From founding The Freedom Heart Foundation to support domestic violence survivors, to creating The She CEO Collective for women entrepreneurs, to co-founding South Dade Connections aimed at providing resources to residents and entrepreneurs, my work is rooted in purpose. I don’t just build campaigns—I build communities and opportunities.
In every space I enter, I bring a unique blend of strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and a results-driven mindset. Some call it charisma; I call it the power of authentic connection. That ability to influence, inspire, and create meaningful change is what truly sets me apart.
Without question, I am most proud of motherhood. There is nothing I enjoy more than the privilege of inspiring and parenting one of God’s greatest gifts—my daughter. Watching her grow into the incredible person she is today fills me with gratitude and pride. She shows up in this world every day with strength, grace, and authenticity, and that is the greatest reflection of love and purpose I could ever hope for. My professional achievements mean a lot, but being her mother is the role that defines me most deeply. It’s where I find my greatest joy and my most meaningful success.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was the definition of active and involved. I was a cheerleader and even served as captain of my teams, which taught me leadership early on. I loved performing—whether through dance, modeling or competing in pageants—and I thrived in environments where I could connect with people.
Community and faith were central to my upbringing. I was active in my church and often participated in service projects with my family. Our home was the place everyone wanted to be—filled with laughter, warmth, and support.
Personality-wise, I was soft-spoken but undeniably a leader. I made friends easily, was optimistic, charismatic, and always willing to help others. Joy and positivity were my trademarks, and I was blessed to grow up feeling loved and supported, which shaped the person I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.iamstrongenough.org, www.commandpresencepr.com, www.sheceocollective.org, and www.southdadeconnections.org
- Instagram: @drmoniquedennis
