MBAE is pleased to welcome our newest member, Chiquita Rice. Chiquita is deeply passionate about MBAE’s mission to expand educational opportunities for underserved communities, especially given the stark statistic that Black and Hispanic students earn college degrees at less than half the rate of their white peers. By reaching students early and providing them with academic tools, mentorship, and real-world exposure, she believes we can reshape educational outcomes and open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

Chiquita currently serves on the board of Shelter Music Boston and has been both a volunteer and Diversity Committee member at Big Sister of Greater Boston. Her parents, who were not afforded the option to attend college, instilled in her the value of academic excellence and determination inspiring her to excel in a corporate setting and now as a business owner at Monarch Investment Advisors.  Chiquita’s personal journey has shown her the transformative power of education, and it’s why she’s determined to help more children realize their full potential.

MBAE members inform our work by sharing their experience and perspective on education and workforce development issues. Together with our partners and affiliates, we’re working to promote a high-quality public education system that prepares every student for success leading to more equitable opportunities, a stronger, more diverse workforce, and a thriving Massachusetts economy.