Riggs to return for first full year at Hastings College
A first generation college graduate is set to begin his first full year as the Hastings College Vice President for Academic Affairs.
By News Channel Nebraska
HASTINGS, Neb. – A first generation college graduate is set to begin his first full year as the Hastings College Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Hastings College announced Tuesday that Dr. Wayne M. Riggs will continue his duties as Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Riggs accepted the position in January, and moved to Hastings from Florida earlier this month after he finished out his time as Dean of Graduate and Education Programs at Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida, a position he held since 2019.
“Education is transformative, and through my own journey I developed a joy for serving students and for engaging in the educational stewardship of our communities,” said Riggs. “Hastings College is such a vibrant learning community, and the city itself is so supportive of the College. I’m grateful to be here and to be part of it all.”
During his time in at Flagler since 2007, Riggs served in several administrative and faculty leadership positions at Flagler, including Dean of Flagler-Tallahassee, inaugural Dean of the School of Humanities and Sciences and chair of the multi-disciplinary Humanities Department.
“Throughout his career, Wayne has built dynamic educational programs while supporting students and leading in a way that builds trust among students, faculty and staff,” said Hastings College President Dr. Rich Lloyd. “He is a true believer in the power of education and the liberal arts, and the rewarding experiences that come with being involved in your community. We are thrilled he is here.”
Riggs holds a PhD in history and an MA in European history from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and a BA in history from Grove City College in Grove City, Pennsylvania.
Riggs will take the place of Dr. Kittie Grace, who served as interim Dean for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Bob Amyot, who served as interim Associate Dean of Academic & Student Affairs over the past year.
“Both were instrumental in moving us forward this year.” said Lloyd.
Grace will move back to her role as professor and Associate Dean of Academic & Student Affairs, while Amyot will return to full time teaching.