The children in our care will always be our #1 priority. We place an equal value on each child’s safety, scholastic achievements and mental development. Our curriculum and faith-based lesson plans help to ensure that every Angel Wings Baby is beyond kindergarten ready by the time they leave our school.
Meet Our Team
Marissa Harris
Marissa Harris has been passionate about childcare since she was just 8 years old, helping her grandparents with their home daycare. With over a decade of leadership experience and having operated her own center since 2014, she brings both professional expertise and a genuine love for children to Angel Wings. Marissa holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology, a Master’s in Educational Psychology, and a National Director Credential, qualifying her to direct facilities for 100+ children. She believes children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful interactions, and she treasures watching little ones reach milestones like first steps, first words, and first letters. Outside of work, Marissa enjoys running, spending time outdoors with her husband, four children, and mini poodle, as well as singing and reading with the kids. Her philosophy is rooted in faith, compassion, and continuous growth: taking ownership, learning from mistakes, and treating others with kindness and respect.
“Marissa Harris, Owner & CEO, combines over a decade of leadership with advanced degrees in psychology to create a thriving, high-quality learning environment for children.”
Jordan Harris
Jordan Harris is an entrepreneur and proud co-owner of Angel Wings Learning Center. With a strong passion for building businesses that serve families and communities, Jordan plays a key role in guiding Angel Wings’ growth and long-term vision.
In 2023, Jordan was honored as the United States SBA Small Business Person of the Year, recognizing his leadership and commitment to creating opportunities that make a difference. At Angel Wings, Jordan oversees marketing, finances, and business development, ensuring the center continues to thrive while keeping its focus on children and families first.
Jordan’s greatest motivation is seeing Angel Wings provide a safe, loving, and inspiring environment for children to learn and grow — while giving parents peace of mind. Together with his wife, Marissa, and his mother-in-law, Jenny, he is proud to help build a center that feels like family.
Jennifer Quillin
Jennifer has been dedicated to early childhood education her entire life, from babysitting and working in church nurseries to teaching in classrooms, serving as a para through Americorps, and working in multiple daycares before co-founding Angel Wings. With a passion for learning through play, music, and movement, she enjoys visiting classrooms with her “Traveling Topics” to spark curiosity and joy. Coming from a long line of teachers, Jennifer brings enthusiasm, innovation, and dedication to serving children and families each day. Outside of Angel Wings, she enjoys walking, hiking, puzzles, crafts, music, and spending time with her three children and seven grandchildren.
“Jennifer Quillin, Co-Owner, brings a lifelong passion for early childhood education and loves inspiring children through play, music, and creativity.”
Erika Ervin
With over 20 years of experience in childcare, Erika Ervin has dedicated her career to creating the kind of classroom she would want for her own children—one that blends structure with play-based learning. She loves watching children reach their goals and take pride in their accomplishments, believing that consistency helps them thrive. Erika is CPR certified, nearing completion of her CDA, and has also attended Point University online with plans to pursue her associate degree next. Her favorite classroom activity is circle time, which she sees as a daily check-in and an opportunity to connect with every child. Erika supports children’s emotional growth by teaching them healthy coping strategies like breathing exercises, breaks, or hugs, and she hopes one day to open her own school. She is passionate about strengthening family relationships and looks forward to building more family engagement opportunities at Angel Wings.
“Erika Ervin, Director of the Central Location, brings over 20 years of childcare experience and a passion for helping children thrive through consistency, connection, and play-based learning.”
Juanita Cruz
Juanita has been dedicated to childcare since 2002 and is passionate about helping children grow into confident, capable individuals. She enjoys building meaningful relationships not only with the children but also with their families, believing that strong connections are key to a nurturing environment. With a CDA and CPR/First Aid certification, Juanita creates classrooms that support both learning and emotional growth. She especially loves art and sensory activities, which spark creativity and discovery, and she helps children learn to understand and manage their feelings with care and guidance. Outside of work, Juanita enjoys freehand painting on canvas as a creative outlet.
“Juanita Cruz, our Director, has worked in childcare since 2002 and is passionate about creating nurturing environments where children and families can thrive.”
Destinie Gabourel
Destinie has over 2½ years of experience in early childhood education and is currently pursuing her CDA at Cowley College. Inspired by her high school English teacher, she loves being part of each child’s growth and development. Destinie believes in creating a nurturing, play-based environment where children can explore, learn, and express themselves through art and imagination. Outside of work, she enjoys coloring, listening to music, and spending time with her daughter.
“Destinie loves fostering children’s growth through play, creativity, and curiosity.”
Mary Andrews
Mary has been part of Angel Wings LLC for 4 years, serving as an Assistant Teacher, Float, Lead Teacher, and now Supervisor. With a deep love for working with children—especially ages 1–4—she creates an environment that encourages exploration, growth, and meaningful learning. Inspired by her mother’s caregiving and education work, Mary is dedicated to building strong bonds with her students and supporting both their academic and emotional development. She is CPR and First Aid certified and is currently working toward her CDA. Outside of the classroom, Mary enjoys singing with her church choir, baking, painting, crafting, and reading. Her goal is to ensure every child leaves her care prepared with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in school and beyond.
“Mary Andrews has been with Angel Wings for 4 years and is passionate about helping children learn, grow, and build meaningful connections.”
Makinzie Hardesty
With over 13 years of childcare experience, Makinzie has a lifelong passion for helping children grow into confident, capable individuals. She creates a structured yet playful environment where kids can learn, explore, and meet milestones with joy. Makinzie is CPR/First Aid certified and is currently pursuing her CDA, bringing dedication and knowledge to every classroom moment. She loves incorporating praise music, circle time, nature walks, and art activities into her teaching. Above all, Makinzie is committed to showing children how deeply they are loved and supported, helping them thrive both emotionally and socially.
“Makinzie Hardesty, Lead Teacher of the Twos & Supervisor, brings over 13 years of experience and a passion for helping children grow with love, structure, and creativity.”
Christina Nicely
Ms. Kris brings over 30 years of educational experience, including summer camps, STEM tutoring, and college instruction, with the past 5 years focused on Early Childhood Education. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Science, is a CPR Trainer, and earned the KS LEND Certification to support diverse needs. With intermediate proficiency in American Sign Language, she incorporates signing to encourage early communication. Known for her enthusiasm, silly songs, and caring approach, Ms. Kris is dedicated to creating a safe, fun, and nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported.
“Ms. Kris brings over 30 years of experience in education and a passion for Early Childhood Education, creating joyful, nurturing spaces where every child feels valued.”
Lindsay Harris
Lindsay brings several years of administrative experience, with strengths in problem-solving, attention to detail, multitasking, and reliability. She enjoys using her skills to support clients, staff, and families while ensuring smooth operations and professional service. Lindsay takes pride in helping people and seeing results from her hard work. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, catching movies, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers.
“Lindsay Harris, Administrative Assistant, is dedicated to delivering professional support with strong problem-solving and organizational skills while always putting people first.”
Hannah Burkholder
Hannah brings five years of experience in early childhood education and is passionate about supporting children and families. She believes children learn best through play, exploration, hands-on experiences, and positive relationships. Hannah enjoys watching children grow and develop while building strong relationships with them and creating a safe, nurturing environment where they feel valued and supported.
“Hannah Burkholder is passionate about creating a safe, loving environment where children can build confidence, independence, and a love for learning.”
Her favorite classroom activities include circle time, singing, reading, dancing, and art. Hannah is CPR/First Aid certified, has completed early childhood training, and is working toward her CDA. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her nephews, playing piano and tennis, and her Australian Shepherd, Sadie.
Miriam Jean
Miriam has been working with children for 14 years and has always found working with kids to be second nature. She enjoys watching children grow and believes that teachers can make a lasting impact through their guidance and actions.
“Miriam Jean, CACFP Site Lead, strives to create a structured, fun environment where every child feels supported and enjoys coming to school.”
Her approach is structured yet lighthearted, creating a fun environment where children look forward to coming to school. Miriam especially enjoys sensory activities and building positive relationships with children to help them feel comfortable, supported, and receptive to guidance.
She is CPR/First Aid trained and has completed various KCCTO certifications for different age groups. Outside of work, Miriam loves the arts, including acting, singing, and playing instruments. She currently plays nine!
Lillian Barker
Lillian began her journey in childcare at just 16 years old, inspired by growing up around a home daycare and the positive impact her own childhood caregiver, Miss Lori, had on her life. Today, she hopes to provide that same love and support to every child in her care.
“Lillian Barker is passionate about helping children reach their developmental goals while creating a classroom where every child feels safe, valued, and loved.”
Her teaching approach combines structured play with small lessons that help children understand bigger ideas. Lillian especially enjoys circle time, singing songs, and helping children reach their developmental goals.
She is CPR, First Aid, MAB, and KCCTO certified and is currently working toward her CDA. Lillian is passionate about creating a classroom where every child feels valued, safe, and loved.
Sarah Baird
Sarah brings 17 years of childcare experience and has a genuine love for watching children grow and learn. She uses a structured approach while still making time for singing, dancing, reading, and enjoying the silly moments that make each child’s personality unique.
“Sarah Baird brings 17 years of childcare experience and is passionate about creating a safe, supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and be themselves.”
Sarah believes in building strong bonds with children so they feel safe and comfortable expressing their emotions. She is CPR/First Aid and Foundations certified and has completed numerous KCCTO courses related to early childhood education.
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys reading, listening to music, and collecting snow globes. Her goal is to encourage children to believe in themselves and help them succeed in whatever they set their minds to.
