Monique Coleman

Adrienne Monique Coleman, born on November 13, 1980, is an American actress and dancer, widely recognized for her role as Taylor McKessie in the High School Musical series. Beyond her acting career, she has made significant contributions to youth advocacy and empowerment.

Early Life and Education

Monique Coleman was born in Orangeburg, South Carolina, and began her acting career in theater at a young age. She attended Heathwood Hall Episcopal School and later earned a BFA in Acting from The Theater School at DePaul University in 2002.1

Acting Career

Coleman's breakout role came in 2006 when she starred in High School Musical, which led to subsequent appearances in its sequels. She also participated in the reality show Dancing with the Stars in 2006, finishing fourth.1

Advocacy Work

Coleman has been a passionate advocate for youth issues. In 2010, she was appointed as the first-ever Youth Champion by the United Nations, focusing on raising awareness about the challenges young people face globally. She has been actively involved with the UN Foundation's Girl Up Campaign, where she works to empower girls and promote gender equality.14

As a Girl Up Champion, Coleman is dedicated to ensuring that girls around the world have access to education and opportunities that allow them to thrive. Her work emphasizes the importance of youth leadership and activism in addressing global issues affecting girls.23

Personal Life

In her personal life, Coleman was married to Walter Jordan from February 2012 until their divorce in February 2022.1

Through her multifaceted career as an actress and advocate, Monique Coleman continues to inspire young people to be leaders and change-makers in their communities.