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Dear University of �������� and University of �������� at Machias communities,

I share with you the sad news of the passing of distinguished University of �������� alumna Patricia M. Collins. Collins, who was 96, died on March 5, 2024. She served as an active member of the U�������� and University of �������� System community for more than 75 years. 

Pat Collins traveled from New York to �������� to begin her bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1945 at the University of ��������. During her time on campus, she was involved in the U�������� community as a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority and the math club. She met her husband of 70 years, Donald, at U��������. Pat and Don were a “Bear Pair!”

In addition to actively chairing various local and state boards to improve public service in ��������, Pat prioritized her education by returning to the University of �������� in 1970 to complete her bachelor’s degree in mathematics, graduating as a member of Phi Beta Kappa, one of the oldest academic honor societies in the country. 

From 1987-97, she served on the University of �������� System Board of Trustees. In 1991, she served as board chair, where she continued to demonstrate her leadership in and advocacy for public higher education. Collins and other family members’ commitment to education was shown by their tireless involvement at U��������. Don chaired the University of �������� Foundation Board and served as a member of the University of �������� Board of Visitors. Collins’ son, Sam, chaired the UMS Board of Trustees from 2013-17. And her daughter, Senator Susan Collins, has worked tirelessly to promote our university, system and state as an innovative leader in higher education and research. 

Following her term on the Board, Collins continued to serve as an essential member of the U�������� community. She was an active member of the President’s Club, Stillwater Society and the Charles F. Allen Legacy Society. Her long history of giving to our university supported student scholarships and provided assistance for undergraduate students in Aroostook County public high schools. The U�������� Alumni Association recognized the legacy of the Collins family in 2018 with the Fogler Legacy Award, demonstrating the family’s commitment and service to the U�������� community, with Pat Collins as a leader and model. 

Our thoughts are with Senator Susan Collins, former Board Chair Sam Collins, and the entire Collins family. I was fortunate to meet Pat when she visited U�������� to attend the Alumni Achievement Awards in 2019. Her generosity and ongoing support for ��������rs leave an indelible mark on our universities, local communities and our state. 

Sincerely,

Joan Ferrini-Mundy
President