Nikki Mann

Administrative Assistant I
Early Childhood Development
Years in Position/ Service to MSU: 1 year and 9 months
Years of Service to MSU: May 2024

After more than 20 years as a pharmacy technician, Nikki Mann needed a change of pace. Like many others, the COVID-19 pandemic caused healthcare workers in various roles to reflect on their careers. For Mann, it was a moment that signaled the need to pursue a different path.

In May 2024, she began a new role at Mississippi State University as an administrative assistant in the Department of Human Sciences. She now coordinates and processes travel reimbursements and arrangements for more than 100 employees working in early childhood. In this role, she manages end-to-end conference travel, including registration, flights, lodging, and related logistics.

"I feel like this career chose me,” Mann said. “Knowing that I support staff who make a difference in children’s lives in the early childhood field across Mississippi is so fulfilling.”

Mann describes the best part of her job as working alongside co-workers who feel like family, as well as having opportunities to visit early childhood development centers outside the office.

“Getting to see the behind-the-scenes work come to life is an amazing motivator for me,” Mann said.

Since joining the Mississippi State family, Mann has also started pursuing her Bachelor of Applied Science degree, focusing on psychology and business. The coursework keeps her engaged, and she plans to use her degree to support her career better. While earning a four-year degree once seemed out of reach, as an MSU employee, “I am finally able to make that dream a reality,” Mann said.

Mann has been married to her husband, Jeff, for nearly 23 years. They have two daughters, Alli and Sidda Leigh. As a family, they enjoy traveling and spending quality time together.