Higher education administration is a hierarchical structure. Hierarchy is the law of the land; those with the most prestigious titles gain the most recognition and obtain success.

Not Karen Rigg.

Rigg, vice president of Student Affairs, has the title, she sits atop a high hill in the Northeastern hierarchy. But you would never know it.

Colleagues and students alike have said repeatedly that she sticks to her guns and has never strayed from her roots.

“She’s just Karen,” a fellow colleague, Dean of Student Services James Motley, said.

Just Karen.

Vice President Rigg calls Macomb, Ga. her home, but does not see herself moving back there, and could not see herself living her life here or making a name for herself there upon graduating high school. She told The News that many women in her hometown became teachers or secretaries, which was she said was fine, but not for her. She wanted more.

And more is what she achieved. Northeastern University has benefited in so many ways, many of which cannot be tallied in dollar figures or retention rates. Karen Rigg has used her success and enthusiasm to help others achieve their goals and realize their potential.

Now Dr. Karen Rigg, a 14-year veteran of Northeastern University, is leaving, retiring early, effective August 31, 2003. Her co-workers in the Office of Student Affairs know she will not be able to leave the university cold turkey, as they anticipate her keeping tabs on the office and the university.

More importantly, the university should follow the lead of the students that have been touched by Karen Rigg, for they will never forget the impact she made on their lives.

Karen Rigg in so many ways is the spirit of Northeastern and she will be missed.