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About

A group of children participate in a discovery flight

Teaching STEM Concepts Through the Lens of Aviation

For more than 30 years, Sooner Flight Academy has worked to inspire Oklahoma’s next generation to become leaders in the aviation industry and in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

We provide a memorable learning experience for students K-12 by encouraging inquiry and exploration. Our hands-on activities are designed to help kids understand more about the world around them through exciting discoveries using math, science and aviation principles.


Meet Our Staff

Program Manager

Ashley Chrisman has been with the Sooner Flight Academy (SFA) since she was a little girl. She started as a camper at SFA when she was 7 years old and completed 10 years in the program. She has worked for SFA in many different capacities including high school intern, Camp Counselor (Navigator), and Summer Camp Manager. Ashley was named Sooner Flight Academy's Program Manager in January 2024 and is thrilled to have the opportunity to lead future generations in Aviation STEM programming. Ashley earned a Bachelors Degree in Public Relations with a minor in German from the University of Oklahoma.

Ashely Chrisman, Program Manager
Program Administrator

Tisha Merchant began working at OU in 2017 after 17 years in the legal field. She has been with Sooner Flight Academy (SFA) since 2020 leading and managing various aspects of our program. In addition to working with children at SFA, Tisha is a CASA volunteer, veteran Sunday school teacher and superintendent, and was leader of a multi-level Girl Scout troop for five years. Tisha enjoys spending time with her husband of 18 years, her two children and three dogs. Tisha earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from East Central University as well as her Master’s Degree in Administrative Leadership from the University of Oklahoma. 

Tisha Merchant, Program Administrator