Mike Collins, RIP

University of Memphis Mock Trial Team 2009-10
University of Memphis Political Science instructor Mike Collins passed away last night.

My first semester back I was in Mike’s class. His encouragement and support led me to audition for he Mock Trial team which he also led, and have helped me push through the difficulties of trying to go to school, and keep the bills paid.

Even though I’ve only known Mike for just over a year, his influence and support has had a huge influence on me. Needless to say, I’m very sad to learn of his passing. He was a great teacher and a great man.

Rest in Peace Mike.



Below is an email sent to Political Science students from Dr. Matthias Kaelberer, Chair of the University of Memphis Political Science Department.

It is with great sadness that I have to let you know that our instructor and undergraduate advisor Mike Collins died last night at a local hospital after a long illness. He was fifty-seven years old.

In addition to being the Political Science undergraduate advisor and an instructor in the department, Mike was an attorney who worked tirelessly for fair housing and other other social causes. There exists a community of lawyers that became attorneys as a direct result of Mike’s guidance and inspiration. His work with the University of Memphis Mock Trial Team was a masterful combination of classroom teaching, coaching, and personal development that prepared his former students for future careers in law, business, and other professional fields. His contributions to this University as an Instructor and as a mentor will live on in the success of his former students.

His family will be holding funeral services in his hometown in Middle Tennessee, and details on that service are still being finalized. The University of Memphis Mock Trial Team is planning an on-campus memorial service for his students, colleagues and friends, and will announce details as soon as those plans are finalized. I will also send out a separate e-mail with our new procedures for advising shortly.

Best,

Dr. Matthias Kaelberer
Professor and Chair
Department of Political Science
The University of Memphis


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One response to “Mike Collins, RIP”

  1. Vicki Hopkins

    Oh my gosh! I am shocked to hear that my friend, Mike Collins passed away! He was my instructor in one of my first classes back to school after many years. During the time I worked in the political Science office we became friends. His guidance and friendship were instrumental to me. He will be missed.

    Vicki Hopkins

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