Courtney was a valedictorian of the Class of 2001 at Portsmouth High School. While at PHS, she was an All-State athlete in tennis, basketball, and softball; senior class president and football homecoming queen.

Courtney graduated summa cum laude in 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Public Relations from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She was also a member of the women’s tennis team.  She was president of the Public Relations Student Society of America and event chairperson of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life on the campus of UNCC. Courtney was also involved with the Catholic Campus Youth Ministry.

Following graduation from UNCC, Courtney was employed by American Tennis Professionals (ATP) in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Shortly following her employment, she was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer and returned home to begin the fight of her life. Courtney untiringly advocated for herself and others affected by cancer. She attended Lance Armstrong’s Livestrong Summits in Texas and Ohio State University. She also attended the National Ovarian Cancer Alliance Conference in Washington D.C. Courtney will be remembered for her cancer awareness efforts and her selfless work to ensure that someday cancer will be eradicated.

Courtney’s journey in the cancer world showed her intense fight and drive to never give up hope. She has touched many lives with her courage and strength.

Courtney passed away from this terrible disease on February 11, 2011 at the age of 28, but she will continue to touch lives through this scholarship fund and ovarian cancer awareness.