Tola Thompson

Tola Thompson is currently a partner at Ballard Partners. Prior to this, they worked as the communications/public affairs director for the Black Alliance for Educational Options from August 2004 to August 2007. In this role, they were responsible for designing and implementing a communication strategy to build awareness of the organization both nationally and in local communities. Tola also handled daily media inquiries, speechwriting, pitching, created monthly newsletters, maintained websites, and managed other tasks while meeting tight deadlines.

Thompson also worked with a set of strategic partners to pass new school choice laws in five key state legislatures - OH, PA, FL, LA, & MI. From January 2017 to March 2021, they served as the chief of staff for a very active and engaged member of congress. In this role, they were responsible for managing and directing the daily operations of the congressional office in Washington, D.C., and supporting the continuous delivery of excellent constituent services and care. Prior to this role, they served as the communications director and senior legislative assistant for another member of congress from January 1993 to January 2003.

Tola Thompson graduated from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. Tola then went on to work in public relations for a variety of companies.

Tola Thompson reports to Brian D. Ballard, President. Tola Thompson works with Rebecca Benn - Partner, Todd Josko - Partner, and Courtney Whitney - Partner.