Meet the MCDA Board of Directors

De’Marco Riggins is the Founder, Executive Director, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Mississippi Collegiate Dining Association (MCDA). He provides strategic leadership and organizational oversight to advance MCDA’s mission of strengthening collegiate dining, student engagement, and professional collaboration across Mississippi institutions.

As the founding leader, Riggins led the development of MCDA’s governance structure, partnerships, and long-term vision, with a focus on sustainability, cross-campus collaboration, and student leadership development.

During MCDA’s formative stage, Riggins also serves as Interim Chair of the Board of Directors, ensuring continuity between governance and operations and supporting the successful implementation of the Association’s foundational goals. Upon organizational stabilization, board leadership and executive management roles will be formally separated in alignment with MCDA’s bylaws and governance best practices.

Riggins brings experience in student leadership, organizational development, and higher education advocacy, with a leadership approach grounded in transparency, accountability, and long-term institutional growth.

Sariah Coleman is the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the Mississippi Collegiate Dining Association (MCDA). A graduate of Alcorn State University with a degree in Biology (Pre-Medicine), she is a proven student leader with a strong record of academic and organizational excellence.

Her leadership experience includes serving as Second Vice President of the Student Government Association, President of the Biology Club, President of the Golden Key International Honour Society, and Secretary of the National Society of Black Women in Medicine. As Vice Chair, Sariah helps guide MCDA’s strategic direction while advancing student advocacy and institutional collaboration across Mississippi.

 Karson Magee is a senior Animal Science major on the pre-veterinary track from Jackson/Byram, Mississippi. She is an active member of the Animal Science Club and has demonstrated strong leadership and service throughout her collegiate career. Karson is a founding member of the Braves Dining Committee (BDC), where she has served as the organization’s first Vice President and later as Project Manager, contributing to program development, event coordination, and organizational growth. Continuing her commitment to leadership and service, Karson will serve as Secretary for the Mississippi Collegiate Dining Association (MCDA), where she will support organizational operations and documentation while advancing student engagement within collegiate dining initiatives 

LaDonna Nichols‑Watkins, a proud native of Canton, Mississippi, earned her Bachelor’s degree from Alcorn State University in 1999. Her professional journey spans hospitality, public health, and education, a diverse background that has deepened her commitment to serving her community with diligence and care. Grounded in these varied experiences, she brings a broad perspective and practical insight to every role she undertakes.

Currently a freshman teacher at Canton Public High School, Mrs. Watkins dedicates herself to guiding young people as they begin their high school journeys. Her passion lies in helping students discover their true paths and in providing the thoughtful planning and support they need to pursue lasting success.

With over a decade of hands-on experience in transit, logistics, and customer service, this professional brings a proven record of operational excellence, reliability, and people-centered problem solving. Their career reflects steady progression through roles requiring adaptability, attention to detail, and effective communication in fast-paced environments.

They possess extensive expertise in transit operations, including scheduling, routing, and logistics coordination, with a strong emphasis on safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Their background in customer service further enhances their ability to navigate complex situations with professionalism, empathy, and clarity.

Recognized for a strong work ethic and practical leadership approach, they excel in collaborating with cross-functional teams, addressing operational challenges, and supporting both customers and colleagues. Their long-standing experience provides a deep understanding of daily operations and continuous improvement, making them a dependable and strategic contributor to mission-driven organizations such as MCDA.