Prior to joining Parkinson Benson Potter, Dr. Courtney was a college professor. She taught writing, literature and humanities courses at numerous colleges in California and Utah, and she was a visiting professor at Shitennōji University in Japan. She specializes in language analysis, is an expert in archival research, and is credentialed in protecting human research participants. Her doctoral work focused on the untold stories of Black women in the Civil Rights Movement. Throughout her career, Dr. Courtney has presented her scholarship at national conferences and symposiums.
At Parkinson Benson Potter, Dr. Courtney has many roles. She manages cases and court filings, provides research support for PBP attorneys, and drafts demands. Dr. Courtney draws on her expertise as a writing professional and her passion for social justice to advocate for fire victims, attempting to cultivate meaningful relationships with clients and tell their stories, in their own words.
Dr. Courtney has also served as a community development and education coordinator in the United States Peace Corps. She worked closely with Department of Education officials in her host country to strengthen existing education infrastructure, and she obtained and managed international funds for hurricane disaster relief. She has extensive training in sustainable community development and is fluent in oral and written Spanish.
In her free time, Dr. Courtney enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, cat, dog and horse. She loves running, skiing, mountain biking, traveling, and reading.
Education
Dr. Courtney received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Riverside, her master’s degree from San Diego State University, and she graduated with her Ph.D. from the University of Utah.