Meet our Board of Directors
Ariel Williams
Ariel Williams, J.D. serves as Board President for FUNDI Charter School. She brings approximately five years of experience in law and public policy, with expertise in negotiation, complex legal research, and community affairs.
Currently, Ariel serves as an Associate Lawyer at The Law Offices of Eric Tiebauer, where she regulates an active caseload of 60+ clients and serves as the primary contact for complex legal research and case management. Previously, she held roles including Law Clerk for the 16th Circuit Court of Mississippi and Intern for U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, demonstrating a proven track record in judicial adjudication support and constituent engagement.
Ariel holds a Doctor of Jurisprudence and a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy Leadership from the University of Mississippi. Her commitment to educational equity and economic opportunity aligns directly with FUNDI's mission to prepare Yazoo City students for STEAM careers and entrepreneurship.
As a World Champion negotiator and former Community Affairs Chair for the Black Law Students Association, Ariel is dedicated to utilizing her legal expertise to advocate for the success and empowerment of Yazoo City's youth.
Carrington Springer
Carrington Springer is a motivated and purpose driven professional with a strong foundation in criminal justice, education, and community engagement. He earned his associate degree from Itawamba Community College and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Mississippi. He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, further strengthening his commitment to the field.
Carrington has developed a well rounded legal background through a combination of internships and hands on experience. He completed an internship with the Mississippi Judicial College at the University of Mississippi, where he gained valuable exposure to the judicial system and legal education. He also interned with Pietrowski Law Firm in Oxford, Mississippi, where he enhanced his legal research and case preparation skills. In addition, Carrington served as a legal assistant at Washington Law Firm in Southaven, Mississippi, providing support in case management, client communication, and trial preparation.
Professionally, Carrington works within a law firm specializing in criminal law, where he is committed to advocating for and supporting individuals within the legal system. He is also a dedicated community advocate, actively working to support initiatives that promote growth, opportunity, and engagement within his community. In 2005,
Carrington ran for public office as an Alderman, demonstrating his early commitment to public service and civic leadership.
With a strong interest in leadership, public service, and community empowerment, Carrington is dedicated to building meaningful connections between institutions and the communities he serves. His academic background, professional experience, and commitment to service position him as an emerging leader focused on creating lasting and impactful change.
Birchel Washington
With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Birchel Washington is a proven leader deeply committed to education, public service, and community empowerment. Deeply rooted in his Mississippi heritage, the Yazoo City native holds a bachelor’s degree in English with a concentration in Mass Communications and Journalism from Alcorn State University.
Mr. Washington’s expansive professional portfolio is anchored by his distinguished service as a commissioned officer in the United States Army. Drawing upon this foundation of strategic leadership and discipline, he has spent decades directing community-based initiatives designed to uplift individuals and families. His multifaceted expertise bridges several critical sectors, including financial services, human resources, community mental health, and educational instruction.
Today, Mr. Washington dedicates his efforts to advancing financial literacy, equipping individuals with the strategic insights necessary to make informed decisions and build generational wealth. Across every facet of his career, he remains a steadfast advocate for cultivating growth, expanding opportunity, and elevating the communities he serves.
Mya Woods
Mya Woods is a dedicated biology instructor with a strong background in biomedical sciences and a passion for education, research, and healthcare. The Meridian, MS native holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Mississippi and a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Mya has experience teaching both college-level biology and middle school science and math in the charter school system, where she developed engaging curricula, led laboratory instruction, and implemented data-driven interventions to support student success. With skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and project management, she is committed to creating equitable and dynamic learning environments for scholars while contributing to advancements in biology and healthcare.