John Monkam brings more than 10 years of professional experience in recruiting, relationship-building, and connecting people with meaningful opportunities. He currently works as an Engineering Recruiter with Actalent, specializing in aerospace and defense positions. Throughout his career, John has developed expertise in sourcing, cold calling, talent engagement, and helping engineering professionals secure long-term career opportunities that improve their growth, compensation, and quality of life.

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John earned a Bachelor of Science from Lycoming College in 2016, majoring in Political Science with minors in Corporate Communications and French. During his professional career at Actalent, he has been recognized as a top performer, achieving annual performance goals multiple times. He has also helped lead diversity and community-service initiatives for Actalent’s DMV team, supporting local givebacks and community events.

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Basketball and service are important parts of John’s life. He is an active high school basketball official with IAABO Board #12 in the DMV area and is affiliated with the Cardinal Basketball Officials Association, officiating collegiate basketball within NJCAA Regions 19 and 20 and the PSUAC. He has also partnered with Rising Stars Restored Hope founder Armani on successful community giveback initiatives.

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John’s commitment to serving others was deeply influenced by his grandmother, whose selflessness, compassion, and willingness to help anyone in need shaped his own philosophy of service. He believes that when a person is in a position to help others, answering that call is both an opportunity and a responsibility.

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As Sports & Player Development Director for Rising Stars Restored Hope, John hopes to contribute his experience, energy, relationships, and willingness to serve wherever needed. He is especially passionate about the organization’s work supporting families affected by difficult and unexpected circumstances and helping them regain stability.

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Looking ahead, John hopes Rising Stars Restored Hope will directly support more than 100 families over the next five years through initiatives such as back-to-school giveaways, holiday events, food drives, and assistance for families impacted by house fires and other tragedies. For John, the ultimate measure of the organization’s success will be the lives positively affected, the relationships built, and the stories of families who were able to move forward because their community showed up when they needed it most.

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Outside of his professional and community work, John is especially proud of the life he has built with his wife, Whitney, and remains committed to using his experiences and opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.