Richard E. Collins, a dear friend and long-time benefactor of Plymouth State University, died peacefully at home on Saturday, Dec. 2 after a brief illness.

R.E.’s generosity to PSU was truly exceptional. He supported scholarships in art, music, foreign language, and education; funded the Jeanneatte and Richard E. Collins Endowment and the Jeannette and Richard E. Collins Challenge Fund; supported women’s studies, the Educational Theatre Collaborative, PSU field hockey, performing arts programming, campus activities, the Center for Women’s Services, and international touring by the Symphonic Band and the PSU Concert Choir. The student art gallery in the D&M building was named in his honor and the atrium entrance to the Boyd Science Center was named in memory of Jeannette Morey Collins. R.E. was the first recipient of the Richard E. Collins Philanthropy Medal, which honors those exhibiting R.E.’s spirit and distinguished philanthropy to PSU.

“R.E. was extraordinarily generous to Plymouth State University, and his legacy is significant,” said President Sara Jayne Steen. “We will miss him.”

On Friday, Dec. 8, the Plymouth State University flag flew at half-staff in mourning and tribute to R.E. Collins.— Marcia L. Santore