Monique Warner
Program Manager, Breast Cervical Health Program, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health
NACDD is proud to highlight Monique Warner, whose longstanding dedication to community health in the U.S. Virgin Islands reflects both deep compassion and a commitment to expanding access to lifesaving preventive care. With more than 30 years of service in public health, Monique has built a career rooted in patient-centered care, trusted relationships, and ensuring that individuals—especially those most vulnerable—can access the services they need to live healthier lives. Through her leadership of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health Breast and Cervical Health Program, she continues to strengthen early detection efforts and improve health outcomes across her community.
What inspired you to work in this area of public health/chronic disease prevention?
What inspired me to work in this area of public health and chronic disease prevention wasn’t a “what,” it was a “who.” A colleague encouraged me to apply for the position because she saw the passion and genuine care I have for my patients and the work I do. After working in the Family Planning Program for more than 30 years, I had developed a deep commitment to serving my community and helping people access quality healthcare. Her encouragement gave me the confidence to take on the role of managing the Virgin Islands Breast and Cervical Health Program, where I have the opportunity to make an even greater impact by promoting early detection, increasing access to lifesaving screenings, and helping save lives.
What is one priority or focus area you’re currently working on?
My current priority is increasing access to breast and cervical cancer screening services throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands while raising awareness about the importance of early detection and regular preventive screenings.
What is one accomplishment or initiative you’re especially proud of in your current role?
One of my proudest accomplishments has been launching and operating the Virgin Islands Breast and Cervical Health Program (VIBCHP). This program filled a critical gap in healthcare services in the U.S. Virgin Islands by providing eligible women with access to lifesaving breast and cervical cancer screenings.
How does your work make a difference for people or communities you serve?
The VIBCHP serves uninsured and underinsured women in our community who might otherwise go without preventive care. By providing access to breast and cervical cancer screenings, we help detect cancer early, improve health outcomes, and give women the opportunity to receive timely treatment.
What motivates you to continue this work?
Knowing that our program makes a real difference in people’s lives motivates me every day. Being able to help women who cannot afford these essential services and knowing that early detection can save lives makes this work incredibly meaningful.
What’s one thing that others might not realize about the impact of your field?
Many people don’t realize that public health is often the reason cancers are found early enough to be treated successfully. Behind every screening is the opportunity to save a life, support a family, and reduce the burden of cancer in our community.
Any advice for new public health professionals?
Public health is about serving others with compassion, dedication, and perseverance. My advice to new public health professionals is to always remember that every patient matters. The work may not always be easy, but the impact you make on individuals, families, and communities is truly rewarding. Every person you help has the potential to change a life.
Through her leadership, Monique continues to expand access to critical cancer screening services, ensuring that more women in the U.S. Virgin Islands receive early detection and timely care. Her work reflects a deeply rooted commitment to equity, prevention, and community well-being—helping to build a stronger, healthier future for the individuals and families she serves.