Always a cheerleader: Alumna lifts student-athletes
Cindy Coggins supports with scholarships and mentorship
When University of Cincinnati student-athlete Ligia Williams, CECH ’25, takes the court, she knows she’s not alone. Behind her stands a dedicated mentor who believes in her potential — alumna Cindy Coggins, CECH ’73.
For Williams, the connection goes far beyond financial support. As the recipient of the Coggins Family Endowed Volleyball Scholarship Fund, established in 2020, she says the assistance allows her to focus on academics and athletics without financial stress.
Williams is currently pursuing her graduate degree in public administration at the College of Arts and Sciences.
Relieved of this burden, she’s able to channel her energy into the classroom and onto the court — training, competing, learning and leading. The scholarship isn’t just an investment in a single season; it’s an investment in the long arc of a student-athlete’s life.
A special connection
Ligia Williams, CECH ’25 and Cindy Coggins, CECH ’73. Photo/Provided.
The bond Coggins and Williams share goes beyond the volleyball court.
“I didn’t always have my mom and dad when I started college,” Williams says. “I grew up with my grandparents and then my grandma passed away. But I always have Cindy.”
Coggins has become family to Williams, showing up for games, sending encouraging texts and reminding her of her strengths — even on tough days.
“She’s someone who is going to be there for you,” Williams shares.
“Even if I don’t play well, she always tells me one good thing I did.”
Empowering women on and off the court
Coggins’ commitment to UC Athletics and student-athletes runs deep. A former high school cheerleader, she’s spent years championing women in sports and the workplace. Through mentorship, networking and philanthropy — including support for the Women’s Excellence Fund — she ensures Bearcats have the resources and confidence to succeed.
Her philosophy is simple: “I want to help you be successful.”
Early in Coggins’ career, she rose through the ranks at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management/Graystone Consulting, eventually becoming a senior vice president.
“Very few women in Cincinnati were in the investment business when I started,” Coggins says. “I wanted my daughter and other women to see they could do it too.”
Williams says Coggins has been an example to her, helping her to overcome her fear of public speaking.
“She’s reminded me that I can do more than I think I can. Cindy is always cheering me on and that means everything.”
A thoughtful approach to philanthropy
Coggins and a UC cheerleader. Photo/Provided.
Coggins recalls a pivotal conversation that informed how she makes decisions about giving. The advice of a friend “shaped my philanthropy forever.”
“I was told, ‘choose two or three areas that you are truly passionate about and concentrate your donations and service to them,’” she recalls. “For me, that was my church and my university. That way, I could make an everlasting impact. If everyone chooses to support their passion, this would be a better, kinder and more loving world.”
Besides the volleyball scholarship, Coggins has supported every major athletics project in the last decade, including the renovations of Fifth Third Arena, Nippert Stadium and the Sheakley Indoor Practice Facility.
Coggins is a recipient of the Black Blazer, given to those who have exhibited extraordinary enthusiasm and support for UC Athletics. She was also honored with the Strubbe Distinguished Service Award for her volunteerism. She has served on the Alumni Association Board of Governors and the UC Foundation Board of Trustees.
Featured image at top: Margaret “Peg” Valentine, Nancy Hamant, Cindy Coggins. Photo/Provided.
This is how breakthroughs happen
Your generosity has illuminated what’s next: Student success beyond the classroom. Bearcats winning on the Big 12 stage. The gift of discovery for the health of our community. When you give to the University of Cincinnati and UC Health, you invest in the problem-solvers of tomorrow.
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