Actress and Humanitarian Monique Coleman Delivers Powerful Message on Resilience and Mental Health at BHCC’s Compelling Conversations Series
Monday, January 12, 2026
Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC) concluded its fall Compelling Conversations Series with an inspiring and heartfelt appearance by award-winning actress, producer, and humanitarian Monique Coleman. Best known for her role as Taylor McKessie in Disney’s High School Musical and her groundbreaking work as the first United Nations Youth Champion, Coleman spoke candidly about mental health, identity, purpose, and perseverance.
Introduced by Professor Mizuho Arai of the BHCC Behavioral Science Department and moderated by Associate Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer Nahomi Carlisle, Coleman captured the audience with personal stories from her childhood, her early struggles in the entertainment industry, and the emotional challenges she faced as she rose to international fame. Coleman highlighted that resilience is developed through adversity and encouraged students to embrace their own journeys with patience and compassion.
“You are not defined by what happens to you—you can transform your experiences into moments that empower you,” Coleman shared, reflecting on surviving a childhood accident and navigating feelings of isolation as a young performer.
Throughout the discussion, she urged students to prioritize mental wellness, seek support, and release the pressure of unrealistic timelines. “Give yourself grace. We cannot have compassion for others until we learn to have compassion for ourselves,” she said, underscoring the importance of rest, community, and self-awareness.
Coleman also highlighted the value of intention over achievement and encouraged students to prepare for future opportunities before they appear. “Sometimes it’s just as bad to be early as it is to be late. Your dreams will arrive when you—and they—are ready.”
The event aligned with BHCC’s ongoing commitment to student mental health, including expanded counseling services and resiliency training launched earlier this fall.
Monique Coleman radiated generosity, authenticity, and commitment to empowering young people globally. Her message made a lasting impression on students, faculty, and staff, bringing the fall series to a close with inspiration and renewed purpose.