Courteney Freedman Monroe '86 Honored with Holton's Distinguished Alumna Award

Holton-Arms has named Courteney Freedman Monroe ’86, President of National Geographic, as the 2026 Distinguished Alumna, recognizing her transformative leadership in media and her enduring commitment to purpose-driven storytelling.

Monroe, who oversees National Geographic’s print, digital, social, and television platforms—including content for Disney+ and Hulu—has guided the 138-year-old brand through a sweeping modernization. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its global reach to more than 800 million social media followers and continues to attract top creative talent, including filmmakers such as James Cameron and Ryan Reynolds.

In reflecting on her time at Holton, Monroe credits the school with shaping her leadership philosophy. “Holton helped me develop a strong sense of confidence and self-knowledge,” she said. “I learned early on that my voice mattered and that I should use it thoughtfully and with conviction.”

At Holton, she learned that leadership is rooted not only in achievement but also in connection and empathy. The relationships she built during her school years remain a lasting source of support and perspective.

Holton’s emphasis on curiosity and intellectual risk-taking also played a defining role in Monroe’s career trajectory. “We were encouraged to try new things and not be afraid of getting something wrong,” she said. “That mindset—staying open, asking questions, and embracing uncertainty—has been central to how I approach innovation and transformation.”

That spirit aligns closely with National Geographic’s mission of exploration and discovery. Monroe sees a direct throughline from her education to her current work amplifying the voices of explorers, scientists, and storytellers. “In both places, exploration is ultimately about driving impact—deepening understanding, sparking empathy, and inspiring care for our world,” she said.

Monroe’s career path has been shaped by values-driven decisions rather than a linear climb. She recalled a pivotal moment when she chose to leave a “dream role” in New York to prioritize family. Though uncertain at the time, that decision ultimately led her to National Geographic, what she now describes as one of the most fulfilling chapters of her career.

Before joining National Geographic, Monroe served as executive vice president of Consumer Marketing and Digital Platforms at HBO, where she led marketing for HBO and Cinemax across all platforms. She joined National Geographic Channels U.S. in 2012 as chief marketing officer and quickly rose through the ranks to become CEO of U.S. channels, then CEO of global television networks, and ultimately President.

Her tenure has been marked by both creative and critical success. National Geographic’s films, series, and documentaries, have earned numerous industry accolades, including Academy Awards and Emmys.

For Monroe, the Distinguished Alumna honor is deeply personal. “Holton played a profound role in shaping who I am—not just professionally, but as a person, a mother, and a leader,” she said. “To be recognized by a school that so intentionally cultivates the potential of young women feels incredibly special.”

She added that she remains proud to be part of a community dedicated to developing “thoughtful, curious, and compassionate women prepared to lead lives of positive influence.”

With this recognition, Holton-Arms celebrates not only Monroe’s professional achievements but also the values-driven leadership that continues to define her work and inspire the next generation.