Anchoring Down for More

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Vanderbilt men’s cross country sophomore Jackson Scruggs’ schedule is packed with practices, classes, meetings and all the other time commitments that come with being a student-athlete, but he still prioritizes giving back to the community and volunteers regularly at Jones Paideia Elementary School.

At the 2024 track and field and cross country program banquet, Scruggs was named the men’s cross country scholar-athlete of the year and received a community engagement recognition award for his work with the Jones Elementary After School Program.

In addition to helping students with their homework, Scruggs serves as a mentor for students participating in the “Men’s Club,” which teaches life skills like how to tie a tie.

“I really enjoy the homework side of things, because it’s cool to see how I can help, and it brings me a satisfaction when you can help one of the students learn the material,” he said.

Scruggs first heard about the opportunity through Vanderbilt’s Ingram Center for Student-Athlete Success a year ago and has been volunteering ever since. It’s something he says he plans to continue doing throughout his time at Vandy.

“I’ve always liked coaching and teaching, not only on the academic side of things but on the life side as well,” Scruggs said.

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