Dr. Renee P. Collins faithfully served the Western (WWU) community with distinction for over 30 years, including as the Associate Dean of Students.
Dr. Collins was a dynamic leader, who had a passion for education, for herself and others. She was a strong believer in the importance of human connection and the power of kindness, empathy, and grace, particularly in the fight for social justice and inclusion. Through her work and engagement on and off campus, Dr. Collins served as a staunch and steadfast advocate in the social acculturation, retention, and academic success of thousands of students at WWU, particularly students of color. She will be remembered as a wise woman of great character, strength, integrity, candor, humor, and style.
In honor of her life's work and the many lives she impacted at Western and in the community, we are establishing a new scholarship in her honor. The Dr. Renee P. Collins Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to academically talented Black female identifying students entering Western Washington University as freshmen or transfer students. Whenever possible the candidate would also demonstrate a financial need, interest in education or a related field, and special consideration for students whose activities support inclusion and social justice.
With your support we can endow this new scholarship to annually produce one or more scholarships for talented Black female students who need the scholarship to come to Western and make an impact as Renee did if we can raise at least $25k. A gift to this memorial is an investment in the next generation of Black female leaders, and every dollar counts to make those dream possible and reach our goal. Please make your gift today to this special scholarship so that more brilliant Black female students are able to make waves in our community.
Thank you,
The Collins family and WWU Advancement