IWU STAFF

Penny Brooks was named Illinois Wesleyan University's first-ever Spirit Squad Director in March 2025. She serves as the Head Coach for both the cheer and dance teams, oversees the program's strength and conditioning, and manages IWU's mascot, Tommy the Titan. Hired to establish and lead the university's spirit program as it transitioned into the athletic department, Brooks has focused on building a culture centered on growth, school pride, and competitive excellence while expanding the program's visibility across campus and beyond.

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A lifelong cheerleader, Brooks brings extensive experience from the sport’s highest levels. Throughout her athletic career, she competed at Nationals, The Summit, The Cheerleading Worlds, and College Nationals. She continued her cheer career at the University of Minnesota, where she further developed her passion for performance, leadership, and team culture. In addition to  to IWU, Brooks also serves as UCA Staff , traveling the midwest to inspire and lead the next generation of cheerleaders. Brooks is committed to creating a positive, disciplined, and high-energy environment where student-athletes grow as performers, leaders, and ambassadors for Illinois Wesleyan University.