Rutherford grew up in Clarksburg, WV, and graduated from Notre Dame High School.  Then, she attended Fairmont State College and graduated with an AA Degree in Secretarial Studies. Afterward, she worked as a part-time Church Secretary for 10 1/2 years.  In 2000, Rutherford worked part-time for FSU, and in 2004, was employed full-time for Pierpont Community & Technical College.