Mary Beth Collins

Mary Beth Collins is a Research Professor and Executive Director of the Center for Community and Nonprofit Studies at the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s School of Human Ecology. She holds a JD and MA in Law and Latin American, Caribbean, and Iberian Studies from UW-Madison, and a BA in English from Appalachian State University.

Her work focuses on advancing the third sector, nonprofits, and community well-being through research, education, and outreach. She leads the Center’s mission to develop change agents in the nonprofit sector and has created programs like the Capstone Certificate in Community and Nonprofit Leadership, Board Development courses, and professional skills training. Her research integrates legal, operational, and strategic challenges faced by nonprofits and mission-driven organizations.

Affiliated with the Center for Financial Security and Latin American, Caribbean, and Iberian Studies Program, she collaborates with community partners to address systemic challenges in civic engagement and nonprofit infrastructure. Her educational contributions include graduate-level courses and service-learning initiatives that bridge academic theory with practical nonprofit management.

Contact: Office 4285N Nancy Nicholas Hall, 608-890-0472.