The Founder

Tatyana Watkins-Hudson

About the Founder

Tatyana "Tippy"  Watkins Hudson ., Founder of The Athlete Entrepreneur Foundation

Tatyana, affectionately known as "Tippy," is the driving force behind The Athlete Entrepreneur Foundation, where her personal journey and vision come together to empower student-athletes to excel in both sports and life. Born and raised in Athens, Georgia—home of the beloved Bulldogs—Tippy's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and unshakable determination.

After earning her degree in business marketing from Clayton State University, Tippy graduated during the midst of the pandemic, a time when traditional job opportunities were nonexistent. With limited avenues to build her resume, she returned home to Athens, uncertain of her next steps. However, life had a way of leading her exactly where she needed to be. While back in her hometown, Tippy struck up friendships with a few students who played football for the University of Georgia. Her relationships with these talented athletes opened her eyes to a world she hadn’t previously considered. After her friends were drafted into the NFL, Tippy learned about NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities and quickly realized this was a game-changing moment—not only for athletes but for herself as well. She felt the sting of a missed opportunity though having a poll of athletes at her disposal but became determined to find her own way into the emerging NIL space.

Initially, Tippy thought a career of building a sports agency would be the key to helping athletes leverage their NIL potential. But the more she learned, the more she recognized that her purpose wasn’t just about serving a select few. She dreamed bigger and envisioned something broader—a mission that could connect with student-athletes everywhere, no matter their level of experience or access to resources. With this inspiring goal in mind, The Athlete Entrepreneur Foundation was born.

Tippy designed the foundation to bridge the gap between sports and business, offering innovative programs in NIL education, branding, marketing, financial literacy, and legal knowledge. Her focus on education and empowerment ensures that student-athletes can make informed decisions and prepare for life after sports. Her programs don’t just serve the athletes—they involve families, coaches, and communities to build a strong, lasting support network.

Tippy’s foundation is a reflection of her own resilience and adaptability. Leveraging her personal experience, she has created a platform that prepares student-athletes to seize opportunities, build their personal brands, and lead impactful careers beyond the game. Her vision isn’t just about success on the field but transforming athletes into leaders who redefine what it means to win in life and business. For Tippy, the mission is deeply personal, and her work continues to inspire those around her to see unlimited possibilities—even in challenging times.