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ELKINS -- Davis & Elkins College has appointed a new athletic director -- the first woman ever in the role.
Jennifer Riggleman, Ed.D., will become D&E's athletic director effective July 1, after being appointed by President Chris A. Wood.
Riggleman has been associated with D&E since 2002, in numerous roles. She is currently an Associate Professor of Sport Science and Compliance Coordinator for Athletics.
"I am truly honored to have been given the opportunity to lead the D&E athletic department into a bright future," Riggleman said. "I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching students in a variety of classes, in addition to the administrative positions in athletics I have been able to fill.
"Athletics is such an integral part of D&E's campus, and I am excited to have a new perspective and be able to guide and support our athletic staff and student athletes to reach new heights in the 4 pillars of Education, Engagement, Character, and Competition that anchor the department."
Wood stated, "Dr. Riggleman is ideal to step into this important role at Davis and Elkins. As a faculty member, she is highly respected by colleagues and students alike. She has been working with the Athletic Department for several years as both Faculty Athletics Representative and Compliance Officer and is held in highest esteem by our coaches. Finally, she has my trust and has already demonstrated her value as an advisor and member of the College Cabinet. D&E Athletics is in very capable hands."
Rob Phillips, D&E Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, said, "Dr. Riggleman's time at D&E has been marked by significant accomplishments as both a faculty member and athletic administrator. Her knowledge, concern for our student-athletes and ability to build relationships across the campus will certainly advance the mission of the Athletic Department and the college as a whole."
While at D&E, Riggleman established matriculation agreements to secure seats for Davis & Elkins graduates at Marshall University for the Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and at Bridgewater College and Waynesburg University for the Master's in Athletic Training programs.
She was also awarded the Lois Latham Teaching Excellence Award and the Faculty Mentor of the Year by the Great Midwest Athletic Conference.
Riggleman earned Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Exercise Science at West Virginia University. She then earned her Doctorate in Education Leadership with emphasis in Higher Education Administration from Marshall University. Her clinical background includes the position of Director of Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, which she held for seven years.
At D&E, Riggleman has been the Co-Chair for the "Moving the Needle" initiative for Module: The Business of Being a Student since 2022, Faculty Development Committee Co-Chair since 2022, Faculty Mentor since 2020 and Faculty Marshall since 2015.
Her community service includes being a member of the Board of Directors for Community Care of West Virginia; a member of Family Treatment Court Advisory Committee; and of WVU School of Pharmacy American Pharmacists Association Health Fair; Fields of Faith; Fellowship of Christian Athletes; Project Life Change; and Healthy Living Expos.
Riggleman and her husband of 31 years, Phil Riggleman, have five children and six grandchildren.