For Navy Coggins (2023 BACH HS&E), a first-generation college student from Bernice, La., attending LSU was more than earning a degree — it was finding a community that shaped his future.
For Navy Coggins, a first-generation college student from Bernice, La., attending LSU was more than earning a degree — it was finding a community that shaped his future.
A 2023 graduate of LSU with a degree in kinesiology and minors in biological sciences and leadership development, Coggins is now in his second year of medical school at LSU Health Shreveport, where he expects to graduate in 2028.
Coming from a small high school class of just 47 students in northeastern Louisiana, Coggins wasn’t deeply immersed in LSU football culture growing up. But during his first campus tour, he immediately felt a sense of belonging. That connection led him to enroll at LSU in Fall 2019 — a decision that would transform his life.
“As a freshman, I arrived on campus not knowing anyone,” Coggins said. “Getting involved helped me build meaningful relationships and feel deeply connected to LSU.”
In his junior year, Coggins was named LSU Homecoming King — a moment he describes as unforgettable. He was crowned during the Magnolia Bowl game on October 22, 2022, when LSU defeated Ole Miss in a thrilling comeback victory at Tiger Stadium. After the final whistle blew, fans stormed the field in celebration.
“With my sash across my shoulder and Homecoming King scepter in hand, my friends hoisted me on their shoulders as we jumped the fences and joined the crowd,” Coggins said. “Taking photos under the lights of Death Valley is a memory I’ll carry with me forever.”
But for Coggins, the recognition wasn’t about personal achievement. “I don’t see the honor as individual — it reflects the community that shaped me during my time at LSU.”
Throughout his undergraduate career, Coggins immersed himself in campus leadership and service, including: Sigma Phi Epsilon, president of the LSU Interfraternity Council, LSU Greek Board of Directors, Student Government, and active service within his campus church community.
“Each space offered something unique,” he said. “Saying yes to opportunities across campus allowed me to grow in ways I never could have planned.”
Coggins encourages future Tigers to step outside their comfort zones. “My advice is simple: don’t limit yourself to just one corner of campus. Try new things, meet new people, and trust that getting involved will pay off in ways you can’t always predict.”
Coggins’ commitment to service extended beyond campus organizations. He volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, helping build homes for underserved communities — an experience that reinforced LSU’s emphasis on teamwork and service.
While pursuing his medical degree, Coggins continues to embody LSU’s core values by volunteering as director of Camp Tiger, a free summer camp for children with mental and physical disabilities.
“Whether building homes or supporting kids, LSU taught me that true success comes from building committed teams that not only work together but also leave a lasting, positive impact on the community—truly living the ‘teams that win’ mindset.”
From a small-town student unsure of where he belonged to LSU Homecoming King and future physician, his journey reflects the power of getting involved, saying yes to opportunity, and building meaningful community and lifelong connections.
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