Tim Abram joins as Senior Director of Advocacy, and Andrea Hopkins joins as Operations and Data Manager

The Mississippi Charter Schools Association (MCSA) announced the addition of two new staff members who will help the organization expand its advocacy, operational capacity and service to charter schools and families across the state.

Tim Abram joined MCSA as Senior Director of Advocacy, and Andrea Hopkins joined as Operations and Data Manager. Together, they bring extensive experience in education policy, organizational leadership, finance, data management and community service.

These additions mark another step in MCSA’s evolution as Mississippi’s statewide membership organization representing and supporting public charter schools. As the charter school community grows, MCSA is building a team equipped to advocate for high-quality public education options, strengthen schools and ensure that the voices of charter school families are heard.

“Mississippi’s charter school community has grown significantly over the past several years, and MCSA is growing alongside it.” said Dr. John Dixon, Executive Director of the Mississippi Charter Schools Association. “As more students and families choose public charter schools, it’s our responsibility to ensure schools have the advocacy, resources, and support they need to thrive. Tim and Andrea each bring tremendous experience that will strengthen our ability to serve schools, support families, and build the conditions for long-term success.”

A native of Horn Lake, Abram is an experienced education leader who has spent more than a decade working to expand opportunities for students at the national level. Before joining MCSA, he worked with national education organizations including ExcelinEd, the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools and Charter School Growth Fund.

Abram also served as an education policy fellow for U.S. Senator Chris Murphy and worked for an education technology company. He began his career as a U.S. History teacher at West Tallahatchie High School through Teach For America.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to work on behalf of the students, educators and families of my home state,” Abram said. “Mississippi’s charter schools are creating opportunities for students and communities, and I look forward to ensuring their experiences and priorities are represented in policy conversations across the state.”

Abram holds a master’s degree in Education Policy and Management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mississippi. He is currently pursuing an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He lives in Southaven with his wife and two sons.

As Operations and Data Manager, Hopkins manages the systems, coordination and infrastructure that power MCSA’s work. She oversees operational strategy, data management and organizational processes that support effective execution and impact across the association.

Hopkins previously held leadership positions in finance, including Community Development Officer at NOLA Lending Group, Bank Officer at Regions Bank and Branch Manager at BankPlus. Earlier in her career, she worked in social services as a therapist in Atlanta and later as a Clinical Director in Indianapolis, supporting youth and families. That experience continues to shape her people-centered approach to leadership and service.

“I am honored to join an organization committed to creating opportunities for Mississippi students and supporting the people who serve them every day,” Hopkins said. “Strong systems and reliable data help organizations serve communities more effectively, and I look forward to building the infrastructure MCSA needs to support its schools and families.”

Hopkins holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Tougaloo College. She is actively engaged in her community and has served as President of the West Jackson Rotary Club and as an Executive Board Member of the Mississippi Council on Economic Education. She has also served as a Diplomat for the Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce and the Gluckstadt Business Alliance.

Hopkins is a graduate of Leadership Greater Jackson and currently serves as an Ambassador for the Greater Jackson Partnership. She has also supported youth initiatives through NOLA Lending Group’s Adopt-A-School program.

With Abram leading advocacy efforts and Hopkins strengthening MCSA’s operations and data systems, the association is positioned to provide even greater support for Mississippi’s growing charter school community.

About the Mississippi Charter Schools Association

The Mississippi Charter Schools Association supports and advocates for high-quality public charter schools that expand educational opportunities for students and families. MCSA works with school leaders, educators, families, policymakers and community partners to strengthen Mississippi’s charter school sector and ensure every student has access to an excellent public education.