Māra Wiggins

Māra Wiggins is a Professor and University Librarian at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU), where she has served since 2002. Renowned for her dedication to student support and community service, she was awarded the prestigious 2024 Cathy Cowan Award for her impactful contributions to campus and regional communities.

Education: B.A. in English (with a minor in Human Relations) from Cameron University, followed by a Master’s in Library and Information Science from the University of Iowa. Her career began in public libraries before transitioning to academic librarianship.

Research interests focus on fostering inclusive academic environments, student well-being, and the role of libraries in holistic education. She emphasizes providing students with grace and safe spaces, particularly through her involvement in the LEP 101 program.

Service contributions include leadership roles in the VFW, American Legion Auxiliary, WWG Chargers Boosters, and statewide library organizations like SAMMIE and MnPALS. She has held numerous committees at SMSU and advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Awards highlight her commitment to service, exemplifying the Cathy Cowan Award’s ethos of selfless dedication to others. Her legacy includes shaping SMSU’s culture of community engagement and student-centered support.