Dr. Erin Riggins, Vice President of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Harrison County Campus, has been recognized as one of the 2024 Top Outstanding Community Leaders at the prestigious One Coast Awards ceremony.

The One Coast Awards, organized by the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, Inc. in collaboration with the Hancock Chamber of Commerce, Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce, and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and service in the coastal community.

Dr. Riggins was honored at the event held on April 16 at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi. This recognition underscores her significant contributions to the community and her commitment to advancing education and workforce development on the Gulf Coast.

With a distinguished career at MGCCC spanning over a decade, Dr. Riggins has held various roles, including Science Instructor, Principal Investigator for the MS-INBRE Grant and Biomedical Research Lab, Dean of Teaching and Learning at the Harrison County Campus, Associate Vice President of Teaching and Learning, and Associate Vice President of Workforce Training. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Harrison County Campus.

Dr. Riggins holds an impressive educational background, having earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences degree from The University of Southern Mississippi, a Master of Education in General Science Composite from the University of South Alabama, and a Ph.D. in Science Education with an emphasis in biology from The University of Southern Mississippi.

Throughout her career, Dr. Riggins has been recognized for her outstanding achievements and leadership. She was named Instructor of the Year for MGCCC in 2015 and has received numerous research and grant awards for science publications and presentations, collaborating with MGCCC students. Additionally, she is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and the Mississippi Community College Leadership Academy.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Riggins is deeply involved in community service. She serves on several steering committees and councils, including the Gulfport Chamber Board, AccelerateMS Steering Committee, and the Stone County Economic Development Commission.

She is also a dedicated member of the Hospitality Committee for the Gulfport School District and has previously served as the Director for Children’s Ministries at Christ United Methodist Church.