Lenee has built an impressive career as a cheerleading and spirit program director, leading and developing successful programs at three prominent universities: The Ohio State University, the University of Akron, and Kent State University. Through her strategic vision and leadership, Lenee successfully established full spirit programs, which included creating a dance team and enhancing the mascot program. Notably, she developed Kent State's All-Girl Cheerleading Program, taking the team from a non-competitive status to a nationally ranked program. Under her guidance, Brutus Buckeye, The Ohio State University's mascot, achieved a top-10 finish for the first time in the program’s history. Her work has had a profound impact on the cheerleading and spirit communities, leaving a legacy of success and respect in Ohio.
Lenee played a pivotal role in the creation and development of the spirit programs at each institution, establishing clear guidelines, standards, and constitutions. She was instrumental in generating substantial funds for the programs, fundraising approximately $500,000 annually at Kent State and Akron with the help of student athletes. At OSU, her efforts led to the creation of endowments and donor contributions that reached close to a million dollars. Additionally, Lenee developed strong relationships with key stakeholders such as university administration, development offices, alumni, and donors, securing their ongoing support for the programs.
Her extensive contributions go beyond the university level. As the president of Spirit Trio LLC, Lenee has been deeply committed to supporting and enhancing cheerleading and dance. Her initiatives include serving as the competition and event coordinator for both Ohio High School Cheerleading and Dance Coaches Association (OHSCCA | OHSDCA) and the Best In The State Championship Series. She has also been a vital part of the Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators (OASSA), collaborating with university administrators to create and organize camps, clinics, and competitions across the state. Through these initiatives, Lenee has made significant strides in advancing cheerleading and dance education, certification, and competitive opportunities for both coaches and athletes.
Throughout her career, Lenee has been an advocate for the growth and development of cheerleading and dance, not only by mentoring athletes but also by providing guidance to fellow coaches. She has shared her knowledge through professional presentations at various conferences, including the Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators, and has worked as a choreographer and judge for numerous cheerleading and dance teams. Lenee’s expertise has been recognized widely, and she continues to be a key figure in both collegiate and high school cheerleading communities.
In addition to her leadership roles, Lenee has maintained a deep connection to the sport as a judge, choreographer, and educator. Her commitment to the cheerleading community is evident through her volunteer work, from consulting for local high school teams to choreographing routines and providing judging at competitions. She has a rich background as a former gymnast, cheerleader, and coach, which has uniquely equipped her to mentor and inspire the next generation of cheerleaders and coaches.
Lenee holds a Master's in Education from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Akron, where she also earned Dean’s List honors. With her extensive experience, passion for the sport, and proven leadership, Lenee continues to make lasting contributions to the cheerleading and spirit programs she serves.