NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Part of an ongoing series, VUCommodores.com catches up with former Vanderbilt student-athlete Brooks Rutledge.
Rutledge was a two-year letter winner for the Commodores and was twice named to the All-SEC Academic Honor Roll. He made 11 appearances on the mound in 2001 and threw 15 innings. In 2000, Rutledge made eight appearances including one start.
Rutledge recently took some time for a Q&A to update his life and career:
VUCommodores.com: What is your occupation these days?
Rutledge: “Vice president and project director at Layton Construction Company, LLC. We’re responsible for the construction of the WECN and Residential Colleges (A, B & C) on campus, among other projects in Nashville and throughout the United States.
“My primary responsibilities include the development of commercial business in Nashville and the Southeast United States, as well as operational oversite at such time as a project is underway.”
How has COVID-19 affected you and your family?
“We homeschool our kids, so not a tremendous impact with regard to our day-to-day routine. Typically, I travel a few days out of every month, but that’s not been the case in 2020. My wife and kids see me a great deal more than they used to.
“Oh, and I wear flip-flops every day … at least those days when I’m working from home.”
What has been the hardest adjustment?
“Face masks on the job site, among other ‘new normals’ for the construction industry and its foreseeable future. Additionally, I miss face-to-face interaction. I love people and thrive on relationships – virtual meetings don’t do it for me.”
What has been the most pleasant surprise in these circumstances?
“I’m quite fond of working from home … and efficient despite four crazy kids.”
Any good books, movies or games to recommend?
“My wife and I just recently completed all eight seasons of Homeland … began watching approximately three months ago. While inappropriate at times, it’s addictive.
“I’m currently reading Atomic Habits by James Clear – working to develop good habits amidst unprecedented circumstances.”
What was your all-time favorite moment as a Commodore?
“In May of 2002, I proposed to my future wife, Jennifer Lewis (VU soccer), on the pitcher’s mound at Charles Hawkins Field.
What do you miss most in the sports world right now?
“I missed the Masters. I miss golf in general. I miss college baseball and spending time with my boys at the Chuck. I’m looking forward to the fall and college football.”
Any advice or words of wisdom to Commodore Nation to help us get through this?
“In tough times it’s the relationships we share that get us through … and we’ll be stronger because of it. Nurture your relationships … with the Lord, with colleagues, family, friends, etc.
“I recently read a quote by Dan Quinn, head coach for the Atlanta Falcons. He said (in the context of team and tough times), ‘embrace the suck and find an excuse to win.’ I like it.
“In times like these, it’s a comfort to know that God has a plan for our lives. My favorite verse from the Bible is Jeremiah 29:11: ‘For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord; plans to prosper you and not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future.’ ”
Anything else you’d like to say about your time at Vanderbilt?
“Vanderbilt changed the course of my life. I made lifelong friends at VU. I met my wife at VU. I received a top-notch education and was fortunate to play against the best in the SEC.
“I look back on my time at Vanderbilt very fondly and am grateful to be working on campus nearly 20 years later.”
