Love at first stunt

You’re probably familiar with classic romantic tales like Romeo and Juliet or Cinderella and Prince Charming — but have you heard the Buckeye love story of Brutus and The Cheerleader?

Jordan Lukens ’20, ’24 MD started competitive cheerleading and tumbling at a young age. He knew he wanted to continue to cheer in college, but he wasn’t sure where — until the Ohio State National Championship win in 2015 made his decision easy.

A year later, Maria Wisman ’20, ’23 DPT was looking for a college with a strong competitive cheer program and landed on Ohio State. During tryouts, she met Jordan at Jesse Owens North when he stepped in to spot her during a stunt, standing by in case the flyer fell. The two connected afterward, but they solidified their bond when Maria joined the cheer team in the fall.

Over long walks to The Shoe on game days, tailgates and meals at El Vaquero, Jordan and Maria fell in love. They enjoyed working together on the cheer team, but it was even more fun when Jordan earned the coveted role of Brutus Buckeye. After that, Brutus could occasionally be spotted giving special attention to a certain cheerleader between his head stands and buck tucks.

As part of The Spirit Program, Jordan and Maria spent a lot of time cheering Ohio State on to victory — from football and basketball games to volleyball matches and more. However, their work extended far beyond their time on the sidelines. Their roles were defined as much by community outreach as athletics, offering them unique opportunities for connection. Jordan and Maria were able to spend time at local hospitals and community organizations, experiences that stuck with them far beyond their time at Ohio State.

After graduating in 2020, Jordan and Maria pursued their medical ambitions at Ohio State. Maria became a Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2023, and Jordan earned his MD in 2024. From cheering to their education, Buckeye pride defined one of the most important chapters of their lives. Jordan felt it was important to honor that as they prepared to take the next step in their relationship, so he decided to take Maria to a place that framed their college experience — and there, inside Ohio Stadium, he proposed to her on the 50-yard line.

Jordan and Maria’s Buckeye love story continues to unfold today. Jordan is a resident in the Emergency Department at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and Maria owns The Cheer Doctor, a strength-training business for cheerleaders. They plan to incorporate The Spirit Program traditions into their wedding, complete with the fight song and stunts on the dance floor. The seasons pass and the years roll, but Ohio State remains close to their hearts — and Brutus and The Cheerleader live happily ever after.

Story collected by Jasmine Jones, written by Mollie Hiss, edited by Will Hejduk.