Edward Rigdon
Edward Eugene Rigdon
B.S. Chemistry/pre-med, 1975
Mississippi State University’s long tradition of academic innovation has shaped generations of critical thinkers, hardworking professionals, and leaders in health care. Edward Rigdon was well-suited for the university’s legacy of excellence in medicine. He came to Starkville in search of the rigorous, high-caliber education that has come to define MSU.
“I believed their reputation for excellence in the sciences would prepare me well for my goal of going to medical school. I had an uncle who was a chemist for the Atomic Energy Commission in California who told me MSU would be an excellent choice if I decided to major in chemistry,” Rigdon said.
At Mississippi State, Rigdon found both academic rigor and a full student experience. Although he would eventually become a successful vascular surgeon, he spent his time like many students at MSU, getting involved and even finding his wife.
He recalls fond memories of the small moments that left a lasting impression: “Dates with my girlfriend––and now wife of 52 years––Patricia. All I had money and time for was a bite to eat in the Union and a night in the library,” he laughed.
His connection to MSU traditions remains just as vivid. His favorite campus tradition, he said, was simple: “The cowbell, of course!”
Rigdon credits his professors for shaping his academic foundation, though he resists naming just a few. “To single out one or a few professors who had a special impact on me would be unfair, because they were all excellent, and I am forever grateful for the preparation they gave me for medical school and my career.”
After graduation, Rigdon completed his medical education at the University of Mississippi Medical College, followed by an internship in surgery at the University of Alabama in Birmingham and a residency in general surgery at UMMC. He later served as a surgeon at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Keflavik, Iceland, from 1984 to 1986.
Following his military service, he worked in private practice across Mississippi and at The Ohio State University, including a decade in vascular surgery at UMMC, before ultimately settling into a private practice in Rankin County.
Through each chapter of his career, Rigdon has remained grounded in his beginnings at MSU. “All of my professional achievements were a direct result of the excellent education and inspiration I received from all of my professors and advisors at MSU.”
Rather than measure success by titles or accolades, Rigdon measures it by people. “I am most proud of the appreciation patients and families expressed for my services.”
Now retired, he enjoys a slower pace of life. He describes himself as “a retired grandfather, traveler, reader, home handyman, and mediocre golfer.” He and his wife remain active in their community.
“We are active in church and attend many events at MSU. Every time I’m there or attend an MSU function elsewhere, I am reminded of the reasons I went there and thankful for everything it did for me. I would make the same choice today and recommend it highly to all who want to get the most from their educational opportunities, feel welcome in a supportive and friendly environment, and still have a great college experience.”
His advice to students today is simple but steady: “Take advantage of opportunities, use and develop your mind, and work hard but have fun along the way. It is possible to do all of these things at the same time.”
He says his time here was, “Priceless.”
“In all of my life experiences, I never met a person who came out of college better prepared than I was when I left MSU, regardless of the name or cost of their school.”