Michael Lawrence Collins

Program Director

Contact Michael Lawrence Collins

Michael Collins is a program director on JFF’s Policy team. Mr. Collins develops and advocates for state policies through two national initiatives: Achieving the Dream; and the Early College High School Initiative.

A policy researcher, analyst, writer, and strategy consultant, Mr. Collins helps states to develop and implement public policies designed to increase the number of low-income and minority students who successfully transition from high school into college, persist, and earn credentials and degrees. Mr. Collins regularly convenes education thought leaders and collaborates with public policy decision makers, state and national intermediary organizations, philanthropic organizations, academic researchers, and nationally recognized policy experts to develop policies that support innovative blends of high school and college, and to design and execute on-the-ground policy/action agendas for dramatically improving the rates at which students reach their individual education goals, and at which states reach their statewide education attainment and workforce goals.

Before joining JFF, Mr. Collins served as assistant commissioner for participation and success at the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. In that capacity, he worked with K-12, higher education, the business community, the Texas Legislature, and community-based organizations to increase college access and success.

Jobs for the Future develops, implements, and promotes new education and workforce strategies that help communities, states, and the nation compete in a global economy. In 200 communities in 41 states, JFF improves the pathways leading from high school to college to family-sustaining careers.