Sara Wiggins: A Natural-Born Leader, Awarded 2025 Staff Award
Sara Wiggins’ commitment to Nash Community College has always gone above and beyond expectations, and now her exceptional contributions are being recognized with the 2025 J. Edgar and Peggie T. Moore Staff Award. Honored by her colleagues, Wiggins has been a constant force of support and leadership at NCC for more than two decades, shaping the campus environment and touching the lives of students, staff and faculty.
“I am truly humbled and honored to be selected by my colleagues for this award,” Wiggins expressed. “It’s been a privilege to be a part of Team Nash for the past 25 years and to be recognized for my role and contributions to the team.”
Wiggins’ relationship with NCC began long before she took the helm as Chief of Police and Director of Campus Safety in 2016. From 1998 to 2016, she taught as an adjunct instructor in Criminal Justice, shaping the careers of countless students and future law enforcement officers. But it’s not just her tenure or titles that make Wiggins exceptional; it’s her passion for people and her commitment to making the entire campus feel like a safe, welcoming and supportive environment.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing I’m helping create a safe space where students can thrive,” Wiggins shares. “I have the best job on campus! I get to work with incredible faculty and staff, interact with students from all walks of life, and engage with visitors.”
Wiggins is more than just a fixture in security. She’s an advocate for students and is trusted by her colleagues. As one nominator put it, “Sara is always there for our students—no matter the question, no matter the time. She interacts with them on a daily basis and works tirelessly to ensure the well-being of everyone on campus, often behind the scenes and never seeking recognition.”
Those who work with Wiggins know she’s available 24/7 at NCC. Whether it’s responding to campus incidents or offering support to colleagues with a fresh perspective on challenges outside her role, Wiggins is a constant. K.J. Askew, NCC’s Director of Marketing and Strategic Engagement, sums it up best: “Sara doesn’t just care about campus safety; she’s a thought leader who helps me think outside the box—whether I’m tackling a marketing or recruitment issue, her insight is always invaluable.”
One of Wiggins’ greatest joys is watching students grow throughout their academic journey. As she moves around campus, she sees firsthand the transformation students undergo—from their first steps onto campus to the moment they walk across the graduation stage.
“Seeing students grow and succeed is the highlight of my job,” Wiggins reflects. “I get to witness their journeys in a way that not many may not get to and I am excited to have been a part of that process.”
The J. Edgar and Peggie T. Moore Staff Award is given annually to a non-instructional employee who demonstrates exceptional work ethic, dedication and commitment to the college community. Established in 2004 by J. Edgar and Peggie T. Moore of Rocky Mount, the award honors individuals who embody the values of excellence and service to the institution. Wiggins, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from East Carolina University and a graduate of North Carolina State University’s Administrative Officers Management Program, exemplifies these qualities daily.
“I remember being a first-generation college student and how difficult the whole process seemed,” Wiggins shares. “So, I make it a point to reach out to students who might need a little extra direction or motivation. I want them to know that they’re not alone on this journey.”
As she receives the 2025 Staff Award, it’s clear that Sara Wiggins is much more than an employee—she’s a champion of the student experience whose dedication shapes the heart of NCC. It is only right that she receives recognition for her impact on this institution and its people.
