OMAHA, Neb. - Courtney Speakman completes the Omaha academics staff as an academic & student-athlete development coordinator. Speakman will assist with academic counseling for select programs and professional development for the student-athletes.

"We are so excited to have Courtney join our staff," said Lindsey Ekwerekwu, senior associate athletic director of student athlete success. "Courtney has a variety of past experiences in student-athlete development that we think will translate well to Omaha. We are confident she will fit into our department and help provide our student-athletes with great support."

Speakman joins the Omaha staff following a stint at Ohio State where she served in a variety of roles. Speakman managed 10 student-athletes as an assistant academic counselor. She guided them in the areas of organizational, time management, and academic independence skills, while also assisting them in scheduling tutors and overseeing study hall hours.

"I would like to thank Lindsey and Dani Brooke for the opportunity to join their team," said Speakman. "I am excited to join the Maverick academic success staff. I look forward to supporting student-athletes as they excel in their academic, athletic, and personal lives at UNO!"

While with the Buckeyes, Speakman served in three roles for student-athlete development. Beginning in September 2021, she was an advisor for student-athlete mental health advocacy. She helped raise awareness about mental health issues and the resources available. Speakman assisted in the planning and execution of a 10-day finals stress relief week for more than 1,000 athletes.

Speakman also served as a social media co-manager for the support services area. She managed social media campaigns and assisted establishing a more engaging social media presence.

As a member of the scholar athlete recognition committee, Speakman assisted in the overhaul of the scholar athlete recognition banquet. She handled design, gifts, and creative event planning for over 700 student-athletes.

Speakman earned her bachelor of arts degree in psychology from Wittenberg in May of 2018 and went on to earn her master of science degree in sport and exercise psychology from Cal State Long Beach in May of 2020.