Meet the Team: Milan Thompson

Milan Thompson serves as the Senior Manager of Data and Research. A fifth-generation native of Jacksonville, FL, alumna of Duval County Public Schools, and a two-time graduate of Florida A&M University. Milan learned the importance of and need for high-quality at an early age. Milan sought to continue her family’s legacy and received her Bachelor’s degree in Health Care Management and Master’s degree in Public Administration.

Milan built a distinguished career in legislative and government affairs, rising from internships with AT&T and the Florida House to a Policy and Budget Analyst role where she helped pass major legislation and secure increased education funding before leading government relations and launching transformative public-policy programs at her alma mater. She now continues her public-service mission through board leadership and entrepreneurship, advancing education, community impact, and economic development through ventures like MiCo Candles and The Bridge Consulting Firm.

What appeals to you about the work that JPEF does?

Working for JPEF provides me with a unique opportunity to be part of a think-and-do-tank to serve education best with data and research best suited for the success of our students, and emphasizes progressive growth for students and recognizing teachers. I’m excited to be part of an organization that fuels progressive growth and ensures teachers have the needed support to excel in students’ academic success.

Why is public education important to you?

Public education is important to me as it serves the education of its community. It provides opportunities for all students to gain a high-quality education with the support of the community. It provides advanced opportunities for families who may not be able to afford education otherwise and provides the community opportunities to ensure success for collective progression in education. Public education is important because it’s the only opportunity for all students to gain opportunities to grow academically and professionally.

Tell us about a teacher who really impacted you:

I believe a collective of teachers significantly impacts my academic and professional growth. The most who impacted my life were Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Crooms, and Mrs. Pugh of Good Shephard Christian Academy; Ms. Richardson of Success Academy, Ms. Standberry and Mrs. Montgomery of San Mateo, Mrs. Jenkins, Mr. Smith, Mr. Meeks, and Mrs. Matthews of Darnell-Cookman Middle School, Mr. Young, Mr. Smith, and Mr. Hitchcock of Stanton College Preparatory, Dr. Dawson, Dr. Paul, Dr. Lewis, Dr. Perryman, Dr. Beck-Jones, Dr. Gordon, and Prof. Howell of FAMU. There are many more, but I’ve carried their lessons throughout my life from first grade through my graduate studies and in my professional career. I’m incredibly grateful for each lesson learned, whether big or small, as their impact is significant as I return their investments in me to ensure the success of future student progression.