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Bonnie Johnson
June 08, 2026
Media ArticleAngel Riggs, a professor in the Oklahoma State University Department of Agricultural Education, Communications and Leadership, has been recognized with the Dick and Malinda Berry Fischer Award for Teaching Excellence.
The honor was presented during the Ferguson College of Agriculture Scholarships and Awards Banquet held in March.
Established by Dick Fischer and his late wife, Malinda Berry Fischer, the award celebrates exceptional educators who make significant contributions to agriculture and natural resources education.
Riggs joined Oklahoma State University in 2011 after building a career in journalism. Today, she is focused on helping undergraduate agricultural communications students develop strong newswriting and communication skills.
Riggs teaching responsibilities include courses such as Writing for Agricultural Publications, Introduction to Agricultural Communications, and Research Applications with Q Methodology, which helps graduate students prepare for careers in research.
“Dr. Riggs works tirelessly in her classroom and with our students,” said Shane Robinson, department head for agricultural education, communications and leadership.
“She constantly pushes them toward higher levels of success. She establishes a great rapport with her students, which is important on numerous levels.”
Drawing from her experience during the early years of the internet era, Riggs emphasized the importance of mastering core journalism skills that remain valuable despite changes in technology and media platforms.
“I can’t tell these students what the world is going to look like in 20 years,” Riggs said. “But I do know if they have a solid foundation in writing and interviewing and story development, that’s going to serve them well.”
Riggs also serves as a co-instructor for the Cowboy Journal, the Ferguson College of Agriculture’s student publication, where she mentors students producing in-depth feature stories.
“Dr. Riggs creates a classroom environment where students feel seen and supported,” said Cynda Clary, associate dean for academic programs.
“She invests the time to understand who they are and helps them recognize their potential. Students leave her courses not only with stronger skills, but with greater confidence.”
“I hope that they remember the things that I remember from my days in college, which is the mentorship,” Riggs said.
“I don’t remember as many individual class periods, but I do remember how intentional professors were. I remember how much they poured into me. I hope my students remember that.”
Photo by: okstate.edu
