Biography
Director of Admissions
Ms. Riggins oversees and directs operations and programs related to the recruitment, admissions, and matriculation of students to the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine (KPSOM). As a first-generation college graduate, Ms. Riggins is passionate about the transformative power of higher education. She has a strong record of success and commitment to increasing access and equity in medical education.
Prior to joining the school, Ms. Riggins had more than twelve years of experience in enrollment management for health and science programs. In her former role as the Executive Director of Enrollment Management at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science, she successfully developed and implemented admissions policies, procedures, and recruitment strategies that led to a doubling of the population of underrepresented and historically excluded students pursuing degrees in medicine and science. As a result of her innovative and collaborative efforts, the institution has experienced sustained growth and gained global awareness. Vanessa has a genuine care for the growth and well-being of her colleagues. She also worked in admissions, recruitment, and alumni relations for over 6 years at Western University of Health Sciences.
Ms. Riggins earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, Riverside. She also earned an Associate of Arts degree from Riverside Community College.
