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.

Ria Malhotra

Teacher

Ms. Ria is a dedicated tutor and graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi. Originally from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, she is passionate about helping students build confidence in their learning within a supportive and encouraging environment.

Ria’s goal is to help each student strengthen academic skills, develop effective study habits, and grow in confidence both inside and outside the classroom.

Patricia Posey, MED

Teacher

Ms. Posey earned her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education from The University of Southern Mississippi and a Master of Mathematics Education from William Carey University. She holds teaching certifications in Mathematics (7–12), English Language Arts (7–12), AP Calculus, and SREB Math Ready.

Now in her 20th year as a mathematics educator, Patricia has extensive experience teaching a wide range of courses, including 8th Grade Mathematics, Algebra I, Algebra II, Algebra III, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, SREB Math Ready, and AP Calculus.

Nicolas Munoz

Tutor

Mr. Munoz is a graduate student pursuing his Master of Teaching and a dedicated instructor at Sylvan Learning. He enjoys discovering how each student learns best and works to create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, staying engaged, and building confidence.

Nicolas holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from The University of Southern Mississippi. His background in psychology helps him understand how students learn and develop effective strategies to support their academic growth.

He is committed to helping every student reach their full potential and develop the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.

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.