Caribou, Maine
"A woman among women, a person among people. Pat Collins has made a difference in the lives of her family, her community and her state. We are pleased to recognize this person who truly is North of Ordinary."
Nancy Hensel, UMPI, 2001, presenting Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters to Pat Collins.
Patricia M. Collins met her husband Don while attending the University of Maine as an out-of-state student from New York. Married in 1948 they settled in Caribou and raised 6 children, including United States Senator Susan Collins. Firm in her belief that education is the way to a better life, Patricia entered the work force in 1973, serving for nine years as Religious Education Coordinator at Holy Rosary Church. This positively impacted hundreds of Caribou families.
Always motivated and willing to work towards a better future for all, Patricia utilized her public speaking and organizational skills to move into city and state government. Elected Mayor of Caribou, she went on to lead the Maine Committee for Judicial Responsibility & Disability and the University of Maine System Board of Trustees for several years where she earned tremendous respect from her male peers.
As Chairman of the Board for Catholic Charities Maine, Pat is known for taking a unique and personal approach to leadership. She is fond of saying, "Don't call it charity, call it justice," when referring to these vital statewide programs.
A graduate of the University of Maine with a BA in Mathematics and of the University of Maine at Presque Isle with a BA in Art, Pat Collins is a genuine, personable and consistent example of a committed public servant. Her actions have improved the lives of Maine women and children by her leadership in the educational, health and human service organizations essential to their needs, involvement with the Maine Women's Forum and as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Achieving the delicate balance offamily, community service and success in the arts, Patricia M. Collins is truly a "woman among women".
2005 Photograph
Inducted March 2005
