President Daniel J. Elsener | Marian University website

Marian University has recently named Bessie Rigakos, Ph.D., as the new Vice President and Dean of Marian University’s Saint Joseph's College (MUSJC). Dr. Rigakos, who previously served as the Dean of Academics at MUSJC, assumed her new role on February 12, 2024.

Dr. Rigakos has an impressive history with Marian University, joining as a faculty member in 2010. Within six years, she took on the position of Department Chair of the History and Social Science Department. In 2021, she was promoted to the role of Academic Dean at Saint Joseph’s College.

As Vice President and Dean, Dr. Rigakos will provide guidance and mentorship to the staff, faculty, and students of MUSJC. Her responsibilities include overseeing the college's strategic direction, academic programs, the Earn and Learn workforce development program, and student support services. In collaboration with Marian University leadership and the corporate community, she will also work on developing and implementing degree programs and coursework to enhance student workforce readiness.

Dr. Rigakos expressed her commitment to the future success of MUSJC, stating, “In partnership with Marian University and the dedicated team at Marian University’s Saint Joseph's College, my focus is squarely on shaping a future that prioritizes innovation, transformative growth, and the readiness of our students for their careers. This commitment is a pledge to lead our community with vision and determination, ensuring every student is poised for success in their chosen paths. I am deeply committed to unlocking the full potential of every student, igniting a profound sense of motivation within our staff and faculty, and ensuring that our academic programs and workforce development cultivate the highest caliber of work-ready leaders within our community.”

MUSJC offers two-year degrees in business, liberal arts, information technology, and early childhood development. The college's unique Earn and Learn program, coupled with an associate degree, provides students with valuable workforce skills and business connections in the Indianapolis community.

Kenith Britt, Ph.D., Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer of Marian University, expressed his confidence in Dr. Rigakos's abilities, stating, “Five years ago, Marian University led the state with the implementation of an innovative Earn and Learn two-year program in connection with the business community. Dr. Rigakos has demonstrated remarkable success in every position she has held at Marian over the last decade. I have no doubt that in leading Saint Joseph’s College, Dr. Rigakos will continue to push enrollment growth, quality programs, and build awareness in our community. Dr. Rigakos is a proven leader with demonstrated results, and I’m excited to see how far she and her exceptional team will take Saint Joseph’s College in the future.”

With Dr. Rigakos at the helm, Marian University's Saint Joseph's College is poised for continued growth and success. Her leadership, dedication, and focus on innovation and student readiness will undoubtedly shape the future of the institution.