Rear Adm. Mary Riggs graduated magna cum laude from the Catholic University of America, Washington, District of Columbia, with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and advanced degrees in physiology and biophysics from Georgetown University. She has practiced in a variety of critical care settings including coronary care, intensive care, shock trauma and post-surgical open heart. She then launched a successful career in cardiovascular research leading to the approval of several drugs and devices.

Riggs was directly commissioned into the Navy Reserve in 1990. She mobilized in support of Operation Desert Storm. She served in a number of leadership roles supporting clinical units as well as being selected to the Woman’s Board and Specialty Leader for Nursing Research. In 2008, she served as executive officer, Operational Health Support Unit (OHSU) Portsmouth, Virginia, followed by commanding officer from 2010-2012. In 2013, Riggs was recalled to active duty serving as the deputy director, Reserve Policy and Integration, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED). In 2016, she served as deputy chief of staff for Navy Reserve Navy Medicine Education and Training Command.

Riggs was promoted to Rear Admiral in 2017 and was assigned as commander, Reserve Component Expeditionary Medicine and served as deputy director, Navy Nurse Corps. She then served as director, Research and Development (J-9), Defense Health Agency (DHA); deputy commanding general, Medical Research and Material Command; and chief nurse executive, DHA. In 2020, she served as the interim deputy director for Health Care Administration, DHA. In 2021, Riggs reported to BUMED as deputy chief for Total Force. She currently serves as BUMED vice chief for Reserve Policy and Integration as well as the acting executive director.

Her awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Naval Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy Achievement Medal (three awards) and various service medals and unit awards.

Last Updated: 8 March 2024