Rudi Barnette | Jax State Cross Country
Hometown/Current City: Good Hope, AL/Jacksonville, AL
Undergraduate Major: Secondary General Science Education
Rudi Barnette was a 2025 Allstate NACDA Good Works Nominee, an honor given to student-athletes who have shown extensive levels of civic engagement and leadership, going above and beyond in their sport and in the classroom. Barnette was also a CUSA 2024 Fall Spirit of Service Award Recipient, rewarded for her efforts as chair for the SAAC Community Service Committee.
How does competing in a college sport shape who you are today?
Being a collegiate athlete has continuously shaped me into a better person. It has taught me discipline—whether it’s waking up early for practice, balancing classes, and labs, or putting in the work at weights. I’ve learned the importance of being intentional with every moment of my day. Beyond that, college sports have helped me grow as a friend and teammate. I’ve had the opportunity to meet people from many different places and cultures, which has expanded my perspective and allowed me to build meaningful relationships.
What career path are you pursuing after college?
After college, I plan to pursue a career in secondary science education. My passion lies in chemistry, and my goal is to teach high school students and inspire them to develop the same curiosity and love for the subject that I have. Looking further ahead, I aspire to earn my doctorate and become a professor of education, where I can help prepare and mentor future teachers.
What’s the best advice you ever got from a coach or teammate?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to “be where your feet are.” Time goes by so quickly, and it’s easy to always look ahead to the next big thing while forgetting to appreciate the moment we’re in. This advice has reminded me that these are the good times, and I strive each day to be present and fully engaged right where I am.
What advice would you share with upcoming student-athletes?
The advice I would share with upcoming student-athletes is to always give your best and never compare yourself to others. If you consistently put forth your best effort, there’s no reason to be frustrated with yourself. Every athlete plays an important role on their team —whether it’s being the fastest, contributing through community service, or serving as a positive leader. Each role matters. Focus on running your own race, giving your all, and appreciating every moment. Your time as a student-athlete will go by quickly, so be grateful for where you are right now.
How has being a student-athlete helped you succeed in the classroom?
Being a student-athlete has made me a stronger student in the classroom. It has taught me to be intentional with my time, balancing practices, games, and academics while staying focused on my goals. It has also helped me develop a positive mindset—I’ve learned how to encourage and uplift my classmates when they face challenges, just as I would support a teammate on the field.
What’s your best tip for balancing athletics and academics?
My best tip for balancing athletics and academics is to lean on the foundation that gives you strength. For me, that foundation is my faith in Jesus Christ. He is unchanging, and even when times are difficult, I know I can rely on Him to guide me. One verse I hold onto is Proverbs 16:33: “We may throw the dice, but the Lord determines how they fall.” I also recommend using a planner and keeping a to-do list. Looking at everything at once can feel overwhelming, but breaking tasks down into small, manageable steps makes it easier to stay focused and intentional with your time.
As a winner/nominee of multiple community service-related awards, what inspires you to be involved in your community?
There are many things that inspire me to be involved in my community. I believe that people were created for community—we aren’t meant to go through life alone. Having others in your corner makes it easier to face challenges, and I want to be that kind of support for others. My own journey through disordered eating in high school taught me the importance of encouragement, compassion, and walking alongside others in their struggles. I try to live by the motto of “going the extra mile,” because I’ve seen how Jesus goes the extra mile for everyone. When we come together, we’re stronger, and real change can happen. There are so many needs in the world, and if no one steps in to meet them, growth and healing can’t take place. That’s why I feel called to give back and serve wherever I can.