· Founder · Principal Auctioneer · Emcee
Meet TiWanna “TK” Kenney, The First Black Woman Benefit Auction Specialist (BAS)
· Bilingual: English & Spanish · NAA Benefit Auction Summit Chair · Austin Under 40 Finalist
Introducing TiWanna Kenney, affectionately known as TK! As a U.S. Army veteran, and the first Black woman to earn the Benefit Auction Specialist (BAS) designation, TK brings a trailblazing perspective to every fundraising stage she steps onto.
The Founder’s Story
TK founded Astounding Auctions in 2017, proudly assembling the purpose-driven and diverse auction team that serves you today. TK has since become a trailblazing visionary with a mission to revolutionize the fundraising auction world. As a US Army Veteran, TK is the first Black woman auctioneer to achieve the esteemed title of Benefit Auction Specialist (BAS), making her a true leader in her field. She brings energy and inspiration to fundraisers, ensuring those important moments tug at the heartstrings and drive donations.
But TK is more than just an auctioneer — she’s a global citizen who connects with diverse audiences in both English and Spanish. Her passion for auctioneering led her to create a state-approved curriculum at McLennan Community College, inspiring future generations of fundraising champions.
TK’s dedication to the auction team and community is unwavering. She has held influential roles within the National Auctioneers Association (NAA) and has made significant contributions locally through various board positions, and as a member of the Texas Auctioneer Association (TAA).
Recognized with prestigious awards such as the Austin Woman’s Way Awards and as an Austin Under 40 Award Finalist, TK’s tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed. She is also the proud recipient of six Volunteer Service Awards during her career in the finance industry. She frequently appears in the media and on podcasts about fundraising and benefit auctions.
If you’re seeking an auctioneer to deliver results with enthusiasm and tell your story with heart, TK is your Auctioneer. Her expertise, leadership, and dedication will transform your fundraising event into a night to remember.
TK stands as a steady advocate for the Black community, women, veterans, entrepreneurs, and the LGBTQIA+ community, embodying a commitment to excellence and advocacy in everything she does.
Why Booking a Certified Auctioneer Matters
Less than 1% of auction across the country hold the National Auction Association's Benefit Auction Specialist designation.
Astounding Auctions team members aren’t just professionals—they’re leaders of the auction world, raising the bar and setting new standards of excellence
certified auctioneers typically generate bids that are 50% higher than non-certified auctioneers.
Based on a survey conducted by the National Auctioneers Association (NAA).
Less than 1% of the auction industry is comprised of BIPOC people, and less than 18% are women.
Based on a survey conducted by the National Auctioneers Association (NAA).
TK’s Records of Service
Honored By
A Steady Advocate
TK stands as a steady advocate for the Black community, women, veterans, entrepreneurs, and the LGBTQIA+ community—embodying a commitment to excellence and advocacy in everything she does.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the first Black woman auctioneer to earn BAS certification?
TiWanna “TK” Kenney, founder of Astounding Auctions, is the first Black woman auctioneer to earn the Benefit Auction Specialist (BAS) designation from the National Auctioneers Association—a credential held by less than 1% of auctioneers nationwide.
What is a Benefit Auction Specialist (BAS)?
A Benefit Auction Specialist (BAS) is an advanced designation from the National Auctioneers Association for auctioneers who specialize in nonprofit fundraising events. Certified auctioneers have been shown to generate bids that are 50% higher, on average, than non-certified auctioneers.
Is TK Kenney an auctioneer in Spanish as well as English?
Yes. TK is bilingual in English and Spanish, which allows her to connect authentically with diverse donor audiences at fundraising events.
How do I book TK Kenney for a fundraising auction or emcee event?
You can book TK directly through Astounding Auctions, the fundraising auction company she founded in 2017, by reaching out through the Astounding Auctions team page.