Catalyst of Change

How staying steadfast through times of change shapes a brighter future.

Attaining and then sustaining societal change takes long-term focus. Luckily, continually going above and beyond comes naturally to Stephanie Collins. Her untiring commitment to philanthropy is something that runs in the family.

“Growing up, it’s just something we always did,” she said about her family’s practice of giving back to the school classroom, being on the PTA, or helping the church when they were in need, adding, “I feel lucky to be able to continue to do that in many ways and to be even more involved in the community today.”

Forging Connections

Stephanie and her husband, Dave, met in third grade and dated during their time at Saratoga Springs High School. They graduated in 1999, then married in 2004.

Stephanie earned her Bachelor’s degree from Siena College and her Master’s from St. Rose while standing by Dave’s side as he found his role in the family business - DA Collins, a public and private construction company celebrating their 75th Anniversary this year. Together, the couple was introduced to the business community from the local to the state level.

“It’s about more than just business, it’s about getting to know who the families are behind the business,” she said of these connections and collaborations. After teaching in the Shenendehowa school district for three years, Stephanie stayed home to raise their two children while committing more and more of her time to charitable causes. Now, the children are ages 14 and 12, and Stephanie has taken on a job as a part-time recruiter in the private equity field.

“It’s a field I never imagined myself in but the job involves a lot of connecting with people, which is something I love to do,” she said.

Visualizing The Goal

Stephanie is such an effective change catalyst because she maintains a poise and grace that is engaging and motivating to others while facilitating the communication critical for successes along the change journey. Through Stephanie’s confidence and support, teams tackle new ways of working together in a sustainable way.

“Everyone takes their own lane to get to the goal. If you assemble a team so their strengths compliment the end goal, you’re bound to be successful,” she said.

Stephanie is the current President of Flower and Fruit Mission of Saratoga Hospital. The mission has been in place since 1904 and raises money for the hospital’s Mother/Baby unit. She serves on the Saratoga Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees and assists with other events including the annual Summer Gala. She is an honorary chair of the Wesley Foundation Gala, has contributed to Jake’s Help from Heaven, and the Incredible Teddy Foundation.

Stephanie and Dave have also served as honorary co-chairs for the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, attend the Saratoga Sponsor a Scholar Derby Day party, Cantina Cocktails for a Cause, are participating in the YMCA/Saratoga Senior Center collaboration and are supporters of the Franklin Community Center.

Taking Action

Although her leadership support has a positive impact on so many, it is the people in our community affected by domestic violence and sexual assault who will be most able to see it every time they walk into Wellspring’s new building in Malta.

An idea in the making for years, the new building was constructed during the pandemic and opened in 2021.

“It’s not about the building but what happens inside,” said Stephanie. “Wellbeing, safety, and mental health are prioritized, as well as prevention through education and understanding.”

“There are many forms of abuse and it is something that can happen to anyone,” she added.

Highlighting the positive outcomes provides models for meaningful change within the community. Their success stories demonstrate possibility. They inspire both individuals and organizations striving to shine a light on the issues and challenges facing society today.

“The fi rst step is just jumping in,” said Stephanie. “Join that committee or board. Just say, ‘yes’. Make that phone call and ask, ‘How can I help?’ See what it leads to.”

Stephanie’s clarity and consistency as a change agent is perhaps best measured by these successes, as well as her enthusiasm for the future.

“I am thrilled and feel so lucky to live in this community, there is always something coming up next,” she said.