Kristine (Krissy) Collins

Kristine (Krissy) Collins is Dean of the Division of Continuing Education at the University of California, Irvine. Since joining UC Irvine in 2022, she has led the development of a strategic plan, forged new industry partnerships across Orange County, and strengthened cross-campus collaborations—all with a learner-centered approach that prioritizes quality and impact.

A champion of non-traditional education, Collins brings over 20 years of experience from leading Canadian institutions, including the University of Toronto (U of T) and the National Film Board of Canada (NFB). She launched U of T’s first micro-credential program and contributed to the creation of innovative digital storytelling platforms at the NFB. Her career spans edtech startups and cross-sector partnerships focused on advancing accessible, high-quality learning.

Collins has served on several boards, including the Coursera Council, Canadian Association for University Continuing Education, the Digital Credentials Consortium (MIT), Media Smarts, and UPCEA’s Council for Credential Innovation. She is a frequent speaker on workforce development, strategic partnerships, and organizational change. She holds a master’s in communication and culture from York and Ryerson Universities, and a bachelor’s in communication studies from Concordia University, where she was also an Academic All-Canadian basketball player.

Collins leads through a positive lens, is solutions-focused, and is eager to nurture lasting educational partnerships with professionals and organizations in Orange County and throughout California.