Meet the COMPASS Team

Staff

Leah Rutkowski, MA, LPC, NCC, CHES, NBC-HWC
Director of Oros Well-th Scholars and COMPASS Peer Education Program

I am honored to work alongside the incredible Oros Well-th Scholars and COMPASS Peer Educators, a passionate group of student leaders dedicated to supporting the well-being and success of their peers.

I believe every student deserves to feel connected, supported, and empowered throughout their college journey. Through COMPASS, I help guide a student-centered initiative focused on equipping CMU students with the skills and support they need to embrace wellness, thrive personally, academically and professionally, both during college and beyond. Together with the COMPASS Peer Educators, I support efforts to create and lead wellness initiatives, help students navigate stress and life challenges, and inspire healthy habits that build resilience and confidence. I am especially passionate about fostering a campus culture where every student feels seen, valued, and supported.

My passion for peer education began during my own undergraduate experience at CMU, where I was a Peer Advocate for Healthy Lifestyles (PAHL) and saw firsthand the power of connection and peer-to-peer support. That experience continues to inspire my work today. I am committed to creating meaningful opportunities for students to grow as leaders, advocates, and changemakers while contributing to a healthier, more connected, and supportive CMU community.

Educational Background:
Associate of Art, St. Clair County Community College
Bachelor of Science, Public Health Education and Health Promotion, Central Michigan University
Master of Art, Professional Counseling, Central Michigan University 

License & Certification:
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)/National Certified Counselor (NCC)
National Board Certified - Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC)
Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)

Niki Osakue, BSN, RN
Student Intern

I am a Master of Public Health student, COMPASS Student Intern, and Student Coordinator for the Financial Wellness Collaboration. With a background in nursing and public health, I am passionate about promoting holistic wellness and helping students thrive in every area of their lives. I believe wellness extends beyond physical and mental health to include emotional, social, financial, intellectual, and other dimensions of well-being. I enjoy connecting with students, sharing helpful resources, and encouraging healthy habits and self-care. My goal is to help build a supportive campus community where every student feels valued, empowered, and equipped to achieve overall well-being.

CMU Involvement: Executive Member, Delta Omega Honorary Society; Membership Chair, Eta Sigma Gamma; Editor, Department of Public Health Alumni Newsletter; Member of the Public Health Advisory Board

Oros Well-th Scholars & COMPASS Peer Educators