Meet Our Team

Brandian Bufford, PHD

Director of Education

Brandian oversees the educational integrity of our programs, managing and training our team of tutors in Hattiesburg. With over 18 years of experience, Brandian served as a principal, dean of instruction, reading specialist, 9th grade administrator, department chair, and teacher. She received her bachelor’s and master’s in Elementary Education from William Carey University and holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Prairie View A&M University. When Brandian isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her family or working on a DIY project.

Donna Morgan, MED

Teacher

Ms. Donna is a dedicated teacher at Sylvan of Hattiesburg, where she works with younger students. With a strong background in special education, Donna also serves as an Early Intervention Special Instructor at The Children’s Center for Communication and Development.

Prior to her current roles, Donna spent many years serving students in the Mississippi public school system before retiring. She holds a Master’s Degree in Special Education from The University of Southern Mississippi and is a graduate of Hattiesburg High School.

Donna’s passion for teaching extends beyond the classroom, as she also enjoys leading a 4th–6th grade Sunday School class. Her commitment to supporting children’s academic and personal growth reflects a lifelong calling to serve students.

Outside of work, Donna enjoys spending time with her two children, her two dogs, friends, and relaxing with a good suspense series.

Mrs. Debbie has fulfilled her lifelong passion for education through more than 40 years of teaching experience. Throughout her career, she has taught students ranging from 4th through 10th grade across nearly every subject area and has also worked in adult education.

At Sylvan Learning, Mrs. Debbie works with students of all ages, bringing a broad range of instructional experience to meet each learner’s needs. She holds a Master’s degree and maintains teaching licensure in three states—Mississippi, Louisiana, and California—reflecting her depth of expertise and commitment to education.

She currently resides in Hattiesburg with her husband and her dog. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Debbie enjoys reading, gardening, and line dancing.

Ferlisha Thompson, MED

Math Teacher

Ms. Thompson is a retired math teacher with 21 years of experience and a former Teacher of the Year. She has taught grades 4–12, sponsored Mu Alpha Theta and the Beta Club, and served as Teacher and PLC Leader. She also served five years in the U.S. Navy and holds a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from The University of Southern Mississippi.

Ms. Thompson is passionate about creating inclusive, hands-on learning environments where every student feels valued and supported. Her goal is to help students grow academically and develop the skills needed for success in school and beyond.

Outside of teaching, she enjoys movies, gardening, and spending time with her family and her granddog, Parker.

Motto: “Your ATTITUDE will determine your ALTITUDE!”