Tamika Edwards, currently the director of public policy at Southern Bancorp Community Partners, will join Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families as director of governmental affairs. Edwards will work closely with community partners and lawmakers, ensuring Arkansas children and families have a voice in the policy-making process.

Edwards is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, she has a master’s degree in professional and technical writing from UALR, and a law degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law. She will play a key role in developing our legislative strategy, directing our legislative relations work, and will work closely with AACF’s executive director and the rest of the AACF legislative team.

Edwards, a former Pulaski Technical College educator, brings a wealth of experience and community service to her new position.

“AACF’s mission aligns perfectly with my life’s work.” Edwards says. “I’m thrilled to join an organization where my professional responsibilities appropriately support my personal mission of service. I look forward to working with legislators, other policymakers, fellow advocates, and constituent groups to coalesce around policies that provide opportunities for all children and families in the state.”

AACF Executive Director Rich Huddleston says Edwards is committed to AACF’s mission and will make a great addition to the staff. Edwards says the organization’s work in health care and education advocacy are of particular interest to her.

“Whether it is ensuring that children and adults have access to health coverage or fighting for early childhood education, AACF has played a vital role in advocating for the well-being of children and their families in this state. Growing up, my mother often said to me, ‘Just do what’s right and you won’t have to worry about anything else.’ Her sage advice became the moral compass for my life and my work.  I’m excited to continue that work at AACF.”