By Jessica Mize
As an executive assistant within one of the busiest departments on campus, Claudia Riggins’ days are never boring.
Coordinating schedules, taking meeting minutes and assisting with work orders for various events are just some of the tasks that keep her busy in the new role with Auxiliary Services. Although she’s only been in the position a few months, she already loves what she does.
“I enjoy the fast pace of the department,” said Riggins. “We always say no two days are ever the same in Auxiliary Services and I’m beginning to see just how true that is.”
While the position that Riggins now holds is a new one, she is no stranger to Auxiliary Services. She got her professional start on campus in the department just two years ago, before accepting a position as an academic advisor within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences.
While her job title may have changed over the years, one thing has remained the same, Riggins’ passion for working on campus.
“I love working in the field of higher education,” she said. “I can recall so many people that helped me along the way during my college career and I am honored to now help our students as they strive to reach their goals.”
Originally from El Campo, Riggins made her way to Houston in 2003, when she transferred to UH from Sam Houston State University to finish her bachelor’s degree in sociology. To this day, earning that degree is one of her proudest accomplishments. It’s no wonder, then, that some of her best work memories also involve commencement.
“Receiving my degree was one of the happiest moments of my life, so I’m thrilled that I have had a hand in planning and coordinating that big day for so many other students,” said the proud mother of one. “So much work goes into the planning, but it’s always so worth it. Seeing all of those students walk across the stage as their friends and families cheer them on is just priceless.”
Life doesn’t slow down for Riggins outside of work. If she’s not busy catching up with friends, family and her 9-year-old son, she can likely be found working on her own website, which she hopes to one day launch as a blog where she will cover various topics.
“My goal is to write self-help and fashion articles,” she said.