More About Courtney

Education & Experience - I hold a BA from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, an MA from Bowling Green State University, and a PhD from Texas A&M University (all degrees in English), as well as Graduate Certification in Women’s and Gender Studies. From large Division I state schools to midsized-regional universities to 2-year community colleges, I’ve spent 20 years teaching writing and literature at universities in Ohio, Indiana, Texas, the Middle East, and Massachusetts.

Where I’m From – Oklahoma! I was born and raised in rural Oklahoma, and I’m a diehard OU Sooners fan. Most of my childhood was spent outdoors, exploring nature and catching fish, tadpoles, and frogs. I was a prominent high school basketball player (being 6’2” helped a bit), though I ultimately turned down a full athletic scholarship offered to me as a junior (that’s a different story).

What Do I Do For Fun? – All the adventures and anything food-related! After undergoing a spinal fusion in 2013, I vowed to make the most of every single day, never taking for granted what my body can do. After rehabbing from surgery, I fell in love with obstacle course racing (Spartan, Tough Mudder, etc.), GoRuck (military-style endurance events), hiking (currently working on my 48 4,000 footers of NH), triathlons, and trail running. Thus far, I’ve completed a marathon, a half Ironman, and a 50k trail race, and I have goals for more! Most weekends, you’ll find me hiking in the White Mountains or on an OCR course, but sometimes I take a break and hit the beach.

Family – I am a proud Girl Mom! I have three daughters and one granddaughter, and I want to be the best role model I can be for them. I whisk them away for camping, kayaking, paddle-boarding, fishing, and exploring as often as they will let me. I want each of them to be compassionate, curious, and strong members of the world around them.