The Mississippi First team is a group of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to promote the mission of Mississippi First.

Rachel Canter
Executive Directorrachel@mississippifirst.orgRachel leads the work of Mississippi First, including strategy, financial management, and decision-making.

MacKenzie Hines
Chief of Staffmackenzie@mississippifirst.orgAs Chief of Staff, MacKenzie supports the effective operations of the organization. She also directs Mississippi First’s communications.

Toren Ballard
Director of K-12 Policytoren@mississippifirst.orgToren assist Mississippi First in developing and enacting our K-12 policy agenda.
Brooke Williams
Policy and Communications Associatebrooke@mississippifirst.orgBrooke is responsible for assisting all Mississippi First directors in reviewing policy and data, supporting advocacy, communications, engagement activities directed towards policymakers and stakeholders.

Aerial Adams
Policy & Communications Fellowaerial@mississippifirst.orgAerial is responsible for assisting in policy and communications activities.