Mayor Barker Announces Nominee for Hattiesburg Public School Board

This is a press release form the City of Hattiesburg.

Hattiesburg, Mississippi – On Friday, February 16, Mayor Toby Barker named Yolanda Morris as his nominee for the Hattiesburg Public School District Board of Trustees.

Mayor Barker said that Morris' experience as an auditor and accountant, in addition to her current involvement with the school district, make her a perfect fit for such an important role.

"Yolanda Morris is passionate about the Hattiesburg Public School District and will make a strong school board member," said Barker. "She regularly attends school board meetings, volunteers at her daughter's school and understands responsible financial management. These are all qualities that our school district needs at this time."

Morris currently serves as a tax auditor and accountant for the Mississippi Department of Revenue. She attended The University of Southern Mississippi, where she received her undergraduate degree in business administration. She also attended William Carey University, where she earned her master of business administration.

“As a parent and community member, I am excited and humbled to have this opportunity,” said Morris. “It is my goal to use my talents and abilities to assist Hattiesburg Public School District in meeting its mission, and I look forward to serving in this manner.”

As a school board member, Morris will work alongside fellow board members to create district policy and manage the allocation of district resources. She will fill the seat vacated by Rev. Marcus Cathey, who is completing his second term on the Board of Trustees, including several years as Board President.

“We’re excited about the addition of Mrs. Morris to the school board,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Williams. “She is already actively involved with our district, serving as a PTA officer and on the district's Parent Advisory Committee. Having school board members with vision, talent and an investment in the future of our school system is important, and I look forward to working with her.”

Morris is married to Ken, and they have two children: Kenya, a third grader at Thames Elementary and Kendrick, 2.