MCYAF welcomes new executive director
Maine Community Youth Assistance Foundation is pleased to welcome Dr. Teri Collins, Ph.D. as its new Executive Director. Dr. Collins has a background in scientific research and the chemical impacts of substance use on the body, as well as comprehensive fundraising skills and experience.
Previously, Dr. Collins was Director of Academic Operations and Faculty Lecturer at Northwestern University, and also held leadership roles and technical positions with Abbott Labs and Schering-Plough Corporation. She has over 20 years of experience in managing people, projects and budgets compliantly and creatively with particular skills in partnering for success and developing metrics for measuring performance.
“MCYAF is in my own backyard and I want to make a difference here in Maine Township. I wholeheartedly believe in MCYAF and its mission of substance use prevention and healthy choices for our children, so it's a good match for me. I'm looking forward to meeting members of the community and finding common ways to help keep our kids healthy and alcohol and drug free,” said Collins.
Dr. Collins earned a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from University of Vermont and a bachelor's degree in Biology and Chemistry with a minor in French from College of St. Teresa in Winona, Minnesota. Her educational outreach includes working with Chicago area schools on science programs and activities. She also served on the Park Ridge Community Health Commission, with Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts, and in various volunteer positions for Mary, Seat of Wisdom School and Church. She resides in Park Ridge with her family.
Dr. Collins was selected from a pool of 66 applicants and identified as the top candidate during a rigorous screening process. Federal and State hiring approval was also required because of regulations associated with existing grants.
About MCYAF
The Maine Community Youth Assistance Foundation is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to provide Maine Township residents with a foundation to make healthier choices. MCYAF works with parents, schools, police, youth, government, health care providers, social service, faith and civic organizations toward a common goal of healthy youth. MCYAF secures federal and state grants as well as corporate and private donations for programs and services that promote improved health for residents. For more information, see www.mcyaf.com or contact us at (847) 858-7090.