Collin College founding trustee J. Robert “Bob” Collins, front center, is joined by his wife, Claude Ann, left, along with college leaders, elected officials, family and community supporters during the Tuesday, Oct. 13 dedication of Dr. J. Robert Collins Hall at the Farmersville Campus. Photo Chad Engbrock / The Farmersville Times

Collin College honored founding trustee J. Robert “Bob” Collins on Oct. 13 with the dedication of Dr. J. Robert Collins Hall at its Farmersville Campus, recognizing his 41 years of service and contributions to the institution.

College leaders, current and former trustees, elected officials, family members and community supporters attended the ceremony, which included remarks and a ribbon-cutting. Guests included U.S. Rep. Keith Self, state Reps. Jeff Leach and Matt Shaheen, Collin County Judge Chris Hill and Farmersville Mayor Craig Overstreet.

“It is often said that leaders ask, ‘Why?’” Overstreet said. “Dr. Collins has always asked, ‘Why not?’”

Collins began serving on the college’s Board of Trustees on April 6, 1985, the day Collin College was established. As a founding board member, he helped shape the institution’s direction and expansion over more than four decades.

Throughout his tenure, Collins supported affordable and accessible education, workforce development, strategic growth and community partnerships. College officials credited his leadership and vision with helping expand educational opportunities for students throughout Collin County.

“Dr. Collins has been instrumental in shaping Collin College into the institution it is today,” Collin College District President Neil Matkin said. “For more than four decades, his leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to student success have helped expand educational opportunities across Collin County.”

Matkin said naming the building in Collins’ honor recognizes his legacy and will help future generations of students understand his contributions to the college and community.

Leach also reflected on Collins’ influence and the importance of recognizing those who helped shape Collin County.

“We follow in the footsteps of great, great men and women like you, and Collin County’s best days are ahead, not because of us, but because of great people like you,” Leach said.

In addition to his work with the college, Collins has been recognized for his community leadership, mentorship and public service, which have influenced elected officials, educators and other community members.

During the ceremony, Self presented Collins with a Congressional Commendation and a challenge coin in recognition of his leadership, public service and contributions to Collin College and Collin County.

Collins now holds the title of trustee emeritus and remains connected to the institution following decades of service on its board.

The dedication of Dr. J. Robert Collins Hall commemorates Collins’ role in establishing and developing Collin College and recognizes his lasting impact on the college and the communities it serves.

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