Eugene Brooks Settling into Role as Atlanta Braves’ Director of Diversity Marketing

The memories bring back plenty of emotions for Eugene Brooks. On opening day at Truist Park, the 1989 South Florence graduate and Atlanta Braves’ director of diversity marketing saw his father, former Wilson High School Principal and F1S Superintendent, Allie Brooks Jr., talking with Billye Aaron, wife of Braves legend Hank Aaron.

“To see my dad, whose hero was Hank Aaron, to have a conversation with Mrs. Aaron on opening day this year, honestly that was the moment that hit me. It was a spiritual moment for me because you always talk about wanting to honor mom and dad by doing good work and wanting them to be proud of you,” said Brooks. “Seeing him talk with Mrs. Aaron did it for me.”

In Spring training, Brooks took his son to Florida and his son got to be a part of a video honoring Hank Aaron’s legacy.

“To see my son honor Hank Aaron on video and for my dad to talk with Mrs. Aaron, that’s three generations of our family being part of this,” Brooks said. “You can’t even ask me how that feels. There are no words for that. Sometimes, I’ll sit at my desk and cry because what happened for my dad to talk to Mrs. Aaron was so meaningful.”

Brooks, who has held his job with the Braves since December, hasn’t had a chance to take a deep breath. Not that he minds when he has his dream job.

I’ve really had no chance to take a break. But the bosses have been really good about making sure I get a break when I can take it. I usually go watch batting practice for sure and get to know the players.

“I want to build trust with them and help set up whatever initiatives they would like to work on,” he added. “I’m running around and being very busy, but I’m having a great time. It’s a dream for me and an opportunity I don’t take lightly.”