UM-Flint's Riggs honored by Flint & Genesee Group

Antonio Riggs, associate director in the Office of Student Career Advancement and Success at the University of Michigan-Flint, was named the winner of the Bryant "BB" Nolden Community Champion Award at the Flint and Genesee Group's 11th Annual Art of Achievement Awards, Nov. 5, at the Capitol Theatre.

The Art of Achievement Awards are designed to recognize leading business and hospitality organizations and individuals in the region each year, according to Tim Herman, chief executive officer of Flint & Genese Group.

"Our nominees and award recipients represent businesses of different sizes, entrepreneurs, nonprofits and hospitality partners," Herman told the roughly 700 event attendees. "These organizations and individuals always give more than what's asked. They go that extra mile because they care about their customers and the communities where they live and work."

The Nolden award recognizes an individual or organization that works to improve Flint & Genesee through community collaboration, advocacy and engagement. "Bryant Nolden made a significant impact through his work as a county commissioner and a leader in the nonprofit and business community," said Herman. "We are honored to remember his legacy by recognizing others who carry forward his commitment to Flint & Genesee and serve as champions for this community." Nolden passed away in December 2022.

In the multiple nominations Riggs received for the award, it was noted that his "unwavering dedication to improving Flint & Genesee County through education, mentorship, advocacy and community service" was the primary consideration for his recognition.

"Antonio is the true definition of a servant leader, where he uplifts people wherever he goes and consistently invests his time, talents, and resources into strengthening the community. Professionally, he has connected hundreds of students with career opportunities through job fairs, networking events, and employer partnerships. He is passionate about ensuring that students from Genesee County not only have access to resources but also the encouragement and mentorship to pursue their dreams. Antonio's leadership in higher education has expanded access to career readiness programming and created lasting partnerships between the university, local employers and the broader community," noted one submission.

"Antonio is approachable, knowledgeable and dedicated to helping others succeed," wrote a second nominator. "He creates an environment where students feel comfortable coming to him with any career-related questions, whether they need guidance on writing a strong resume, preparing for interviews, or navigating the process of finding jobs and internships. What makes Antonio stand out is not only his expertise but also his genuine care for each student's growth and success. He takes the time to listen, providse thoughtful advice and encourages students to reach their goals with confidence. His leadership style is both professional and supportive, creating a welcoming space where students feel valued and motivated."

"To receive this award means a lot to me because it reassures me that the services I provide are valued by students and community members," Riggs said. "BB Nolden has served as my mentor since childhood and into my adult life. He inspired me to attend college, return to Flint and get engaged in the community by identifying my purpose and leveraging my strengths to help others. He was a mentor to so many kids on Flint's north side through his work in K–12 education, and his example encouraged me to pursue a career in education as well. My commitment to service has enabled me to build a network of individuals dedicated to positively growing Flint. Another motivating factor behind my dedication to service is the principles of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., where service is the cornerstone of all our activities."  

According to Herman, nominations for the Art of Achievement awards are submitted by the public and then reviewed by two independent committees, one focused on business awards and the other on hospitality. Each committee is made up of local professionals and industry leaders, and "evaluates the entries based on the strength and quality of the nomination," according to a Flint & Genesee Group press release.

"Some honorees represent smaller, lesser-known organizations, while others are more established and visible," said Herman. "In every case, they exemplify the excellence and dedication that make Flint & Genesee such a great place to live, work and visit."

For more information about the Office of Student Career Advancement and Success, please visit the office's webpage. Read more about the Art of Achievement Awards from the Flint & Genesee Group.