Julian Biondi | staff writer

Eggs cracking, the smell of bacon and spatulas twirling. The banter at the flat top grill fills the air. The smiles are contagious. The man behind the grill is “The Eggman,” Derrick Riggins.

Riggins has been serving omelets to hungry Duquesne students for 23 years now.

From meat lover’s omelets to over-easy eggs, Riggins memorizes the preferences of all his frequent customers.

“The most rewarding part of my job is just putting smiles on everyone’s faces every day,” he said.

Riggins’ love for cooking started when he was a child.

“I always loved to cook. I was always in the kitchen with my mom, my grandmother and grandad,” Riggins said. “I just like to cook.”

His love for cooking helped him get a job after he ended his time in the military. Riggins worked his way up the ranks at Oxford Athletic Club in Wexford.

“I was a dishwasher, then I became prep cook, then I became head cook, and then director of foods,” Riggins said.

His most memorable experiences during his time at Duquesne involve the people he serves.

“Doing the catering for when you guys graduate and serving my omelets to the kids, man. I love it. I love the students,” Riggins said.

Riggins’ method to his motivation is not rooted in the pressure of the kitchen, but instead comes from positivity within himself.

“I’m a people person. I think I got a nice personality, you know. I like to see people smile. Ain’t no need to be grumpy or anything, you know. I have a positive attitude for life itself. I just keep a positive attitude,” Riggins said.

Freshman Noah Lemmon frequents the omelet station. He noted Riggins’ vibe from the get go.

“I’ll be super busy with exams and tests, and I know I can go to Hogan and get a laugh and a delicious omelet from Derrick. I see him remembering all the football players’ orders and having fun with everyone in line. He brightens everyone’s day by just showing his passion for food and his love for students,” Lemmon said.

Riggins’ impact doesn’t just stop at students.

Drew Harris is a young employee of Hogan. He typically works at the dessert station, the one right next to Riggins’ grill.
Riggins has been an important mentor to Harris.

“When I first started here, I was 18. So, Derrick he definitely was that, you know, that older male figure,” Harris said.

Harris said Riggins’ positive attitude affects the workplace.

“He actually made me enjoy my job more, coming in and laughing and joking with him every morning. I enjoy being around Derrick and working around him every day,” Harris said.

Harris said Riggins has been an inspiration.

“He’s somebody that definitely inspires me everyday. He’s here to let me know that anything is possible, you can do anything. No matter your background or where you come from,” Harris said.

Another employee that cherishes Riggins’ positive attitude is Angel Nelson. Nelson greets every student as they enter the dining hall.

“He knows all the students’ orders. He always treats everyone with a smile. He’s great to be around,” Nelson said.

Students and employees cherish Riggins’ positive attitude, as he constantly uplifts all those around him.

“Service with a smile,” Riggins said.

Julian Biondi can be reached at

biondij1@duq.edu.