Getting to Know You: Rustin Howard

Rustin Howard, Associate Director of Special Events, grew up in Mobile, Alabama, close to Gulf Shores, so the love for the beach runs deep in her veins. A proud alum of The University of Alabama ("Roll Tide!"), she received a bachelor's degree in both dance and hospitality management, but in 2017, she traded her beach shoes for cowgirl boots to pursue a career at USI and now lives on a farm in Evansville with her family.  

Rustin and her husband, Hunter, have made a life here in Evansville with their 5-year-old son Laird and 2-year-old twin boys River and Roman. "The boys definitely keep us on our toes, but it's a fun life to live," she says. She also managed to convince her parents, grandparents and in-laws to move to the area, as well. Her family enjoys being outside, being involved in the community and spending time with family, but there is still much more to know. 

Let's learn more about Rustin Howard! 

What does your job as Associate Director of Special Events entail? 

In the Special Events department, I am responsible for planning and facilitating events for the Provost Office, Foundation Office, Housing and Residence Life, Summer Camps and any external or co-sponsored events that take place on campus. I have a fabulous team who produces amazing events at USI. I pride myself on creating efficient processes and streamlining workflow for myself and the department. I am also in charge of the department's scheduling system, contracting and invoicing.  

What originally got you interested in your current field of work? 

In Alabama, I decided on a major in dance but knew I wanted to double major. I was having a difficult time deciding on what that path might be. I dabbled in different areas, but nothing was really taking hold for me. My advisor was amazing and told me about a recent vacation he took to the Biltmore Estates. He told me about an event planner who planned an amazing vacation for him and his family and encouraged me to look at the field. He saw something in my personality that would be a good fit in the industry. He was right. I knew there were endless opportunities as an event planner whether it be music festivals, hotels, retirement homes, corporate planning or higher education. I knew I wouldn't be confined to one location for the rest of my life and could live wherever I wanted and still have a job where I could meet people from all walks of life. I have loved this decision from the very beginning.  

What is one thing that can instantly make your day better? 

This is an easy one-coming home to my children. I always knew I wanted to be a working mom and have my own goals away from just being a mother, but seeing my babies light up when I walk in the door is the icing on the cake. There is no better feeling no matter what has transpired during my day.  

How long have you worked at the University? 

I started working at the University in November of 2017. I am approaching my four-year anniversary.  

If you could relive one moment of your life, which would it be? 

My wedding day for sure. This was the day I got to marry the love of my life and best friend. We were able to become a family for Laird before he was born. The purpose of this day was completely focused. We were surrounded by all of our loved ones, and it was an amazing day that jump started this beautiful life that Hunter and I have created. We will celebrate our sixth anniversary on September 6-golden year! 

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? 

My dream place to live would be on a white sandy beach in a cute, tiny house where we spend all our time outside listening to waves crashing, soaking up the sun, going out on our boat to deep sea fish and eating fresh seafood 24/7. What sounds better than having the ocean as your back yard? Second choice would be Italy-pasta and wine all the time.  

If you had a warning label, what would it say? 

I should have several warning labels always stuck to me. 

WARNING: Devours Taco Bell and crab legs. 

WARNING: I come with my own Amazon distribution center. 

WARNING: JUST LET ME DO IT! You aren't going to do it right.  

WARNING: Use common sense around me.  

What interesting hobbies do you have? 

I don't know that my hobbies are very interesting, but I love to cook and not follow recipes. It brings me joy to throw something together and it taste good. I also love to volunteer. I am an assistant dance coach at Tecumseh High School, and I am on the Vanderburgh County Fair Board. I can bring my expertise to both places, help my community, teach my children the importance of giving back and have fun while doing it.  

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

The people who I work with are the best part of my job. It is a great team to work alongside. We have lunch together daily, and they are my home away from home. I also enjoy executing my event contacts' visions and seeing their satisfaction of the work. I want to be able to take the stress off people and know that they can trust me to provide excellent service. 

Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life? 

My first thought would be Reese Witherspoon-maybe because of the connection to "Sweet Home Alabama," but I also think we have similar personalities. We don't fit the mold of the stereotypical "Alabama Girl." We both are ambitious. We both advocate for women's rights. We both love being mothers. We both like to make people laugh and be goofy. We both have been built by our southern heritage, whether it be to fight against it or embrace it.  

Who is your role model? Why? 

I am going to rope both of my parents into this answer. My mom and dad are two of the most hardworking people I have ever met. They have always done whatever it takes to provide for their family. Family always comes first - no matter what. My dad has instilled in me the drive to be ambitious and to always reach for the stars. My mom is compassionate and loving while also being the one who brings life to any scenario. They have overcome obstacles with grace and will celebrate 35 years of marriage in October. I hope I am half the parent they have been to my sister and I. Having them live 15 minutes from my house has been a true blessing. They are truly two of my best friends, and all I hope to do in my life is make them proud. 

This Getting to Know You feature was written by Tobi Clark, a student worker in University Communications.