TigerWings: Where Little Hearts Grow Bold and Prepare to Take Flight
Inspiring Auburn's K-5 students through immersive afterschool experiences that connect children through community and play. Building foundations to enable our children to soar!
How It Works
Professional Visits
Each month, a different local company or professional visits our afterschool program, bringing interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities, and age-appropriate information about their industry.
Hands-On Learning
Students engage in practical activities designed to introduce them to various skills – from coding with tech professionals to creative problem-solving inspired by engineers and artists.
World Exploration
Through structured exploration and guided reflection, students connect classroom learning to real-world applications, building early skill development and awareness of diverse career possibilities.
Physical Play
Students will enjoy games such as pickelball, golf, basketball and dodgeball in Lake Wilmore's state of the art gymnasium, fields, playground, and Ga Ga ball pit. Through physical movement, we can stretch children's thinking and get them OFF of screens in our 100% screen-free program.
Our Curriculum
Our Guests
Week 1: Builders & Big Machines
Drew Haley Smith is a 2023 graduate from Auburn University with dual degrees in Architecture and Interior Architecture. In less than a year, she completed all ARE and AXP requirements, making her the youngest female architect in the United States at the time. Since then, she has launched the ARE You Ready Study Website which helps other licensure candidates pass the licensure exams as quickly as possible. She currently works for SS&L Architects in Auburn, Alabama, where she has contributed to a variety of community projects including high-security military, higher education, residential, and commercial facilities.
Week 2: Power Up!
We are excited to welcome Alabama Power on Wednesday, August 20th. Children will be able to see up close what a power truck looks like and understand how it works. Don't miss this incredible learning opportunity!
Leonelle Thompson will be joining TigerWings virtually on 8/21. She has two decades of experience in various industries including oil and gas, corporate recruiting, and higher education leadership. Proven leader in successful programs leading to process improvements in university recruiting, internships, and new hire development.
Week 3: Tasty Jobs
Interactive learning at its finest! Children will experience a station where they can take orders, a nugget station where they can box their own nuggets, and learn how headsets work to receive orders. Children will try on aprons, gloves, and hairnets too so they can get the full food service experience! Children will then learn the story behind how Chick-fil-A started, the cow, and hospitality + Chick-fil-A language — “my pleasure!”
Owner: Greg Kebe
Week 4: Planes, Trains & Automobiles
With over ten years of experience in project and program management, business analysis, consulting, and corporate facilitation across the technology, financial, and professional services industries, Bridget Gorta currently serves as a Senior Program Manager on Delta’s HR Strategy & Planning team.
Before transitioning to HR, Bridget worked as a Senior Scrum Master on the Talent, Transformation, & Technology team (formerly Digital Ops & Transformation), where they led the people side of Delta Air Lines’ Cloud Transformation.
Cars have always been a passion for Nathan Turner, and he takes pride in helping others find the cars of their dreams.
In August 2010, he opened his own used car dealership in Auburn, Alabama. After three years of steady growth, he and Holly purchased property in Opelika, Alabama, and moved the dealership to a permanent location in late 2013.
Nathan is excited to teach the TigerWings children all there is to know about automobiles!
Week 5: Reading is Power!
Could it be you?
Week 6: Doctors and Doodles
Bradley L. Young, MD is an Orthopaedic Sports Medicine specialist. Dr. Young was born and raised in Auburn, AL. He attended Auburn University where he was the president of the College of Sciences and Mathematics Leaders and an analytical chemistry research fellow. He was awarded the Dean’s Medal as the top graduate in Biomedical Sciences, and graduated top of his class as summa cum laude.
Dr. Young grew up in Roanoke, Alabama where she graduated from Handley High School. She attended the University of Alabama where she studied Dance and Biology, graduating magna cum laude. After completing further premedical training at Auburn University and teaching ballet for a year, she attended the University of Alabama in Birmingham for medical school where she received the Gold Humanism Award.
She then completed her OB/GYN residency program at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina where she was a PATCH program mentor and resident liaison for the Camino Health Center. She now serves as an OB/GYN at LEE Obstetrics & Gynecology.
Week 7: Lights, Camera, Action!
Could it be you?
Week 8: Honoring Teachers!
Could it be you?
Week 9: Explorers & Adventurists
Could it be you?
Week 10: Game on!
AU Men's Golf Head Coach: Nick Clinard
FAQs
How can my company become a partner?
Email us at kristen@tigerwings.co. We'll schedule a meeting to discuss partnership opportunities tailored to your company's strengths and interests.
Do you provide transportation?
We are thrilled to partner with Auburn Downtown Limo to provide certified Drivers and buses, vans, and SUVs to transport children safely. For the first two weeks of school, each vehicle will have a TigerWings Teacher at the school to help check the children into their vehicle, and will escort the children in the vehicle to Lake Wilmore.
Vehicles run from Auburn Early Education Center, Creekside, Lee Scott Academy and ACC Academy to Lake Wilmore.
Students at Ogletree walk supervised with Staff to Lake Wilmore upon school dismissal. In inclement weather, buses will run from Ogletree to Lake Wilmore.
Are volunteer opportunities available for individuals?
Yes! We welcome volunteers with professional expertise who can share their career journeys with our students. All volunteers undergo background checks and orientation training.
Is TigerWings a licensed childcare provider?
TigerWings is an enrichment-based program that provides afterschool learning experiences focused on career exploration, creativity, and play.
We are not a licensed childcare provider under the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR). TigerWings qualifies for a licensing exemption as a non-custodial, part-time, enrichment program. As such, we are not subject to DHR inspections or regulatory oversight applicable to licensed daycare facilities.
Meet Our Teachers
Tre'Jiunna Yancey
Hello! I’m Tre’Jiunna Yancey, and I’m excited about the opportunity to work as an afterschool program teacher. I currently serve as a Computer Lab Aide at Ogletree Elementary, where I’ve spent the past two years helping students grow more confident with technology and digital learning.
I hold an Associate Degree from Southern Union and am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education at Western Governors University.
I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where students can continue learning, exploring, and having fun after the school day ends.
I have worked for the Cooper family, providing afterschool care in their home, since February of 2024.
Analee Masters
Hi! I’m Analee Masters, a sophomore studying Early Childhood Education at Auburn University. I’m passionate about helping young children grow in confidence and curiosity through meaningful learning experiences. I love being part of the early stages of their development and watching them discover the world around them.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, baking, and spending time with my family.
Gabbi Chiodo
Hey there! My name is Gabbi, and I’m a junior nursing student at Auburn University. I am originally from North Carolina, but moved to North Alabama in high school. I come from a big family and thrive on chaos! One thing about me is that I love an adventure—whether that’s traveling to new places, skydiving, trying delicious food, or simply having a cozy movie night with friends.
I’ve known for as long as I can remember that I wanted a career centered around helping others, and nursing felt like the perfect fit. My biggest inspiration? The incredible Mother Teresa. Her selfless devotion to serving others reminds me that life is meant to be simple—we’re here to love and serve. In a world full of distractions, she’s a shining example of what it means to live with pure purpose, and that’s exactly what I strive for. Knowing I can make even a small difference in someone’s life is what truly fulfills me, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me!
Madison White
Hi! My name is Madison White, and i’m currently a freshman at Auburn University, majoring in Elementary Education. I’m from Mobile, AL and I’m so excited to be in Auburn! Working with kids is probably the best thing ever and something I’ve always wanted to do. I had the honour of working at a recreation camp over the summer as a camp counsellor and it was the best time ever! I hope to transfer the skills I learned there to Tigerwings. My long term goal is to eventually be a principal which I hope to accomplish sooner than later.
In my free time I enjoy playing basketball, pickle ball and hanging out with my cousins. My favorite season is summer and my favorite holiday is Christmas (I know it’s kinda an anomaly since my favorite season is summer) I rather be warm than cold any day of the week. I love to travel but I also love a cozy weekend at home.
In my free time I enjoy playing basketball, pickle ball and hanging out with my cousins. My favorite season is summer and my favorite holiday is Christmas (I know it’s kinda an anomaly since my favorite season is summer) I rather be warm than cold any day of the week. I love to travel but I also love a cozy weekend at home.
Mary Allen Barranco
Hi! My name is Mary Allen Barranco. I’m currently a sophomore at Auburn University, majoring in Human Development and Family Sciences. I’ve always had a heart for kids and have loved spending time with them—whether it’s been during summers at Camp All-American and Pine Cove, playing with kids in Tanzania, or serving at church, as well as doing life with my two younger brothers, who I’ve had a blast growing up alongside.
I’m especially passionate about understanding how children grow and how their early experiences shape who they become. My dream is to work in youth ministry one day, combining my love for kids with my desire to share the love of Jesus.
In my free time, I love trying new coffee shops, reading, taking long walks, and hanging out with friends and family.
Madison Hanchey
Hi! My name is Madison Hanchey, and I’m currently a Sophomore at Auburn University, majoring in Rehabilitation and Disability Studies. I’ve always had a heart for helping others, and my experiences growing up as an athlete have shown me the value of hard work, teamwork, and supporting people in reaching their goals. Playing softball has been a huge part of my life, and it has shaped me into someone who is determined, resilient, and passionate about making a difference. I’m especially excited about pursuing a career as a pediatric occupational therapist, where I can combine my love for kids with my desire to help them overcome challenges and thrive.
My dream is to create an encouraging and supportive environment for children and families, giving them the tools they need to succeed. In my free time, I love playing softball and golf, spending time at the piano, reading, and capturing little moments through photography.
Meet Our Leadership
Sarah McKinley
Sarah McKinley is an Executive Advisor to TigerWings. She has taught elementary school for 14 years in Atlanta, Georgia, and left the classroom this year to stay at home with her two young children.
Within the classroom, Sarah loved planning and teaching lessons in creative, collaborative, and differentiated ways. Curriculum planning is a passion of hers. She created unit outlines and individual lessons for all core subjects which were utilized by her specific grade-level at the time. Sarah really enjoys connecting student interest, real-world topics, and best teaching practices into every lesson.
Sarah received her Bachelor's Degree from Auburn University and Masters of Education from The University of Georgia. In her free time, she enjoys reading, practicing yoga, and spending time with her friends and family.
Jennifer Bailey
Jen Bailey is the Assistant Principal at Auburn Early Education Center. She served in the classroom for several years and loves making a direct impact in the lives of children. Jen is a proud Auburn Alumni and the mother of two young boys.
Meet Our Founder
Kristen Cooper founded TigerWings with a dream of fostering growth mindsets in children.
Kristen is a Psychologist who has spent the past six years partnering with global companies to design their talent practices. With the rapid evolution of AI and technology, the workplace of the future will look very different. We must establish the skills of curiosity, communication, connection and problem-solving now in our youngest learners.
Kristen is passionate about Positive Psychology and has spent her career connecting people to fulfilling careers. Outside of work, you can find her with her three young children, Colby (10), Haley (8), Carson (6), and husband, Mike, at any Auburn University Sporting event.
Kristen and Mike are Auburn Alumni and relocated back to Auburn in 2022 to raise their children on the Plains.
