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
Every week, a different 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 standing in power trucks 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 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 stretch children's thinking and get them OFF of screens in our 100% screen-free program.
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.
Claire Street
I will be attending
Auburn university in the fall of 2026 and I aspire to be a second grade teacher! I love to paint, read, and ride my horse! I enjoy spending time with my family and friends!
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.
Carmen Kinder
I'm Carmen Kinder.
I currently work at Ogletree Elementary as the PE Aide and absolutely love being active and creative in the gym with children!
Adalyn O'Neal
I’m Adalyn O’Neal,
and I’m so excited to be joining the Tiger Wings team! I’m from Elba, Alabama, and currently a sophomore at Auburn University, where I’m majoring in Rehabilitation and Disabilities Studies. I’ve always been passionate about working in the medical field or with children, so I’m really excited to be taking steps toward my dream of becoming a pediatric occupational therapist. In my free time, I run my own baking business, where I enjoy decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cake pops. I also love attending church and spending quality time with my friends and family. Kids have always played a big role in my life, whether through babysitting or building meaningful relationships with them throughout my leadership roles in high school. I’m so grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to make a positive impact on these children!
Gunner McFayden
Hi! My name is Gunner
McFayden and I just moved to the auburn area almost a year ago from Maryland.I currently work at ogle tree elementary school as a special needs assistant. I love to workout and play videogames and hunt and fish and I love sports.
Kelley Brooke Brown
Hi everyone! My
name is Kelley Brooke Brown, I am from Jasper, Alabama, I am currently a Sophomore at Auburn University majoring in Elementary Education. I am so excited to be a part of the Tiger Wings team. For as long as I can remember I have always had a love for teaching and wanting to help kids. From a young age I have always loved helping others, sharing ideas, and watching someone light up with understanding. Having ADHD myself has inspired me to help students with disabilities by creating a learning environment where every child feels understood, supported, and capable of success. Teaching has always come naturally; it’s not only something I want to do, but also something that feels like it is a part of who I am. I have gained valuable experience working at summer camps, church camps, babysitting and tutoring centers, where I have been able to share my passion for helping children learn and grow. Working at the Tigerwings After-School Program will help me follow my dream of becoming a teacher by giving me more experience working with kids and helping them learn and grow. In my free time, I enjoy baking and cooking, experimenting with new recipes and sharing them with others. I also love spending time with my friends and family, making memories and enjoying each other’s company. I am truly grateful and excited for the opportunity to work with children and positively impact their lives.
Sarah Loftus
Hi everyone!
My name is Sarah Loftus, and I'm thrilled to be a freshman at Auburn University, majoring in Elementary Education. Coming from Birmingham, Alabama, Auburn holds a very special place in my heart as both my parents and siblings are proud alumni – it truly has always felt like home to me. This deep connection to the Auburn community fosters a strong sense of belonging that I am excited to share.
Throughout high school, I had various jobs, but my time spent babysitting was always the absolute best! It was during these experiences that I discovered my genuine passion for working with children. I loved creating engaging activities, helping them with their homework, and simply being a positive and reliable presence in their lives. These moments solidified my lifelong passion for serving others and my heartfelt commitment to education.
My educational journey at Auburn is just the beginning. I plan to continue my studies to earn a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. My ultimate goal is to work as a school counselor in an elementary school, combining my love for teaching with a desire to support children's emotional well-being. I believe that fostering a nurturing and understanding environment is key to a child's holistic development, and I'm eager to contribute to that.
I am incredibly excited to be joining the TigerWings team! I'm looking forward to connecting with the children, helping them learn and grow in a fun and supportive setting, and contributing to the wonderful community here. Outside of my studies, I enjoy spending quality time with my friends and family, venturing out to the lake, hiking new trails, and traveling to explore new places. I am so grateful for this opportunity to make a positive impact!
Throughout high school, I had various jobs, but my time spent babysitting was always the absolute best! It was during these experiences that I discovered my genuine passion for working with children. I loved creating engaging activities, helping them with their homework, and simply being a positive and reliable presence in their lives. These moments solidified my lifelong passion for serving others and my heartfelt commitment to education.
My educational journey at Auburn is just the beginning. I plan to continue my studies to earn a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. My ultimate goal is to work as a school counselor in an elementary school, combining my love for teaching with a desire to support children's emotional well-being. I believe that fostering a nurturing and understanding environment is key to a child's holistic development, and I'm eager to contribute to that.
I am incredibly excited to be joining the TigerWings team! I'm looking forward to connecting with the children, helping them learn and grow in a fun and supportive setting, and contributing to the wonderful community here. Outside of my studies, I enjoy spending quality time with my friends and family, venturing out to the lake, hiking new trails, and traveling to explore new places. I am so grateful for this opportunity to make a positive impact!
Our Curriculum
Industry Programming is aligned to the National Career Clusters Framework. Every week children experience a new segment of the wheel and have hands-on interactive and immersive learning, exposing them to the skills required to enter these types of jobs. If children understand their strengths and interests, they will be more likely to enter roles where they can find their true calling, not just a job that pays the bills.
Our Guests
Builders & Big Machines
Drew Haley Smith visited TigerWings on 8/12, where she taught the children about creating designs and how buildings are constructed. They learned firsthand what an Architect does and the certifications and training required to go into this field. Drew Haley 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.
Taylor Campbell shared her passion for big machines during a visit to TigerWings in September! She shared career options with the children, showcased her local customers, and talked about her life as a Recruiter!
Emma Raynor and Megan Moore visited TigerWings on October 1st. The children learned how almost all goods are transported at some point by a forklift. Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, designs, engineers, manufactures, sells and services a comprehensive line of lift trucks, aftermarket parts and technology and energy solutions.
Power Up!
Alabama Power visited TigerWings on August 20th. Children learned first hand what a Lineworker does, how power trucks work, and the critical role electricity plays in our communities.
Leonelle Thompson joined TigerWings virtually on August 21st. She taught the children about solar energy, natural gas, the types of jobs available at Williams Energy, and about her job in the Legal Department. Leonelle has two decades of experience in various industries including oil and gas, corporate recruiting, and higher education leadership.
Tasty Jobs
Interactive learning at its finest! Children experienced a station where they could take orders, a nugget station where they boxed their own nuggets, and learned how headsets work to receive orders. Children tried on aprons, gloves, and hairnets too! Children then learn the story behind how Chick-fil-A started, the cow, and hospitality + Chick-fil-A language — “my pleasure!”
Greg Kebe took the helm as General Manager of Moore’s Mill Club in Auburn in July of 2005. In 2021, Greg partnered with Nick Ciza and Blake Cleveland to open Rocco's Chicken Joint in Auburn. Named after Greg’s beloved dog, Rocco's is a family-friendly spot specializing in perfectly cooked chicken fingers, burgers, wings, and more. Children loved meeting Rocco, learning how Greg created the menu, and which menu items are the most popular!
Reading is Power!
Auburn Public Library visited TigerWings on September 17th! Children learned how library cards work, how libraries are funded, and received first hand insights into the community outreach and events hosted by the Library.
Doctors and Doodles
Sadie Mason is a Nurse Practitioner at Signify Health who joined TigerWings on September 23rd. The children learned how to conduct CPR, interacted with the tools Nurses use on the job, and discovered career paths to go into Nursing.
Bradley L. Young, MD is an Orthopedic Sports Medicine specialist who visited TigerWings on September 24th. The children loved learning about bones and joints + the skills and training required in order to become a Physician.
Lights, Camera, Action!
Jonathan visited TigerWings on October 2nd and taught the children how to make a rhythm, play the trombone and keyboard, and unlocked the power music can make in our lives. Jonathan Hendrix is the COO of Spicer's Music.
Honoring Teachers!
Sabra Rochell visited TigerWings on October 8th. She taught the children about working at Auburn University, the various careers available at Auburn, and how her team engages Alumni around the globe. Sabra is the Director of Advancement Experiences at Auburn University, where she has helped lead the Events and Experiences Team for the past three years. In this role, Sabra and the Events and Experiences team have executed strategic engagement initiatives that elevate the university’s advancement efforts, fostering meaningful connections with alumni, donors, and stakeholders.
Game on!
MK Malone is a Sophomore distance runner at Auburn University. She visited TigerWings on 10/22 to share the intense training and discipline required to become a collegiate athlete.
Tyler Spielman, Cayden Pope, Logan Reilly, and Coach Johnson of the AU Men's Golf Team visited TigerWings on November 3rd! They shared about the passion you must have for the game in order to fully commit to it, thoughts on the transition from High School to College, and how you truly can do anything you set your mind to!
Spooky Science & STEM
Sam Rochell is a Poultry Scientist and Professor who visited TigerWings on 10/28. He taught all about poultry, the process of laying eggs and incubation, and shared about job opportunities in Agriculture.
Tiny Entrepreneurs: Kids in Business & Start-Ups
“If you save your money and you invest it, that money can actually earn you more money, without having to do more push ups, jumping jacks, or high fives.” - Linda Stewart
“Look at your right hand. Think about what you are really good at and know that you are really smart on this one thing. Now look at your left hand, then GIVE it to somebody else. Something I’m good at, now give it away!”
- Dana Pate, Owner of SweetFrog Auburn
Curious Innovators! Manufacturing & Design
TigerWings children loved learning from Jade Bruce of the Auburn University RFID Lab! They were fascinated by the applications of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) — the same technology used by major companies like Amazon, Target, and Delta Air Lines to track products, luggage, inventory, and even pets!
Our K–5 Career Explorers learned:
✨ How RFID tags use radio waves to send information
✨ The difference between a tag, a reader, and a database
✨ How companies use RFID to speed up checkout, manage warehouses, and improve customer experiences
✨ Why RFID matters for future careers in technology, logistics, retail, and engineering
Students even completed hands-on activities where they “tracked” objects using mock RFID tags—experiencing how faster, smarter systems keep businesses running smoothly.
Our K–5 Career Explorers learned:
✨ How RFID tags use radio waves to send information
✨ The difference between a tag, a reader, and a database
✨ How companies use RFID to speed up checkout, manage warehouses, and improve customer experiences
✨ Why RFID matters for future careers in technology, logistics, retail, and engineering
Students even completed hands-on activities where they “tracked” objects using mock RFID tags—experiencing how faster, smarter systems keep businesses running smoothly.
AGX SiteWorx visited TigerWings on December 16th. Our children loved learning all about how these trucks operate on work sites and the skills needed to manage projects, operate equipment, and how to build an impactful career in construction!
Thankful for Helpers! NonProfits & Community Service
This week at TigerWings, our students became junior city planners, learning how store sales and city taxes work together to fund schools, parks, and youth programs.
From hands-on budgeting activities to creating mini city maps, our children discovered how retail helps their community. On 12/12, children met Mayor Anders and heard firsthand about his family's history in retail within the Auburn community. They loved learning about Mayor Anders core job responsibilities, public service, and the skills required to be successful in his role.
Many thanks to our guests Neil Shorthouse, Richard Gerakitis, Anna Hovey, IOM for joining us for a special day of learning!
From hands-on budgeting activities to creating mini city maps, our children discovered how retail helps their community. On 12/12, children met Mayor Anders and heard firsthand about his family's history in retail within the Auburn community. They loved learning about Mayor Anders core job responsibilities, public service, and the skills required to be successful in his role.
Many thanks to our guests Neil Shorthouse, Richard Gerakitis, Anna Hovey, IOM for joining us for a special day of learning!
Planes, Trains & Automobiles - Visiting in Spring
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.
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, buses, and SUVs to transport children safely.
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 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.
One mom, Sadie Mason, said of her experience presenting at TigerWings: "Talking to the kids about nursing, showing them how to take blood pressures, and teaching them with my own child there was such an awesome experience. It was a great reminder of how powerful it is to share knowledge and inspire curiosity."
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.
Nourishment
We are delighted to partner with Greens and Beans to provide a "second lunch" to all children daily.
Community Involvement
2025 Public Safety Night
2025 Auburn Downtown Trick or Treat
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 utilizing data to connect people to fulfilling careers where they can truly find meaning and job satisfaction. She works for SHL - a company that unlocks the possibilities of businesses through the power of people, science, and technology.
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.
