Palmer Leadership Institute
Dr. Jeffrey Collins appointed as new director
Confederation Centre of the Arts (CCOA) recently announced the appointment of Dr. Jeffrey (Jeff) Collins as Director of the Palmer Canadian Leadership Institute, ushering in a new chapter for the Centre’s national leadership programming.
A respected scholar, policy expert, and educator, Dr. Collins brings a wealth of experience in public service, academia, and national policy leadership. Originally from Placentia, Newfoundland, and a long-time resident of Prince Edward Island, he has built a distinguished career at the intersection of government, research, and public engagement.
Dr. Collins is widely recognized as a national media commentator on Canadian defence and foreign policy and is the author of two books, as well as numerous academic and policy publications. His leadership experience extends internationally through participation in prestigious programs, including Action Canada, the Perth USAsia Centre, the Warsaw Security Forum, and the U.S. State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program. He has also served on the Board of the Banff Forum since 2023.
“I’m honoured to join the Confederation Centre of the Arts and lead the Palmer Canadian Leadership Institute at such an exciting time,” says Dr. Collins. “Embracing the Centre’s founding as a place ‘where Canada connects’, the Institute has a unique opportunity to convene emerging and established leaders from across the country to explore the ideas and challenges shaping Canada’s future, at home and abroad.”
Dr. Collins holds a PhD in Political Science from Carleton University, a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, a law degree, and a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science.
CCOA recently announce the naming of the Palmer Canadian Leadership Institute, made possible through a transformative gift from the Palmer Family Foundation in support of the Centre’s Shared Voices Campaign. The gift honours the legacy of the late James (Jim) Palmer, a respected lawyer, civic leader, and lifelong champion of public policy, national unity, and Canadian institutions.
A cornerstone of the Centre’s national mandate, the Institute cultivates leadership, dialogue, and civic engagement through the Symons Medal Presentation and Lecture, the Charlottetown Forum, and other programming that brings leaders and the public together on issues shaping Canada.
Under Dr. Collins’ leadership, the Institute will continue to expand its reach and impact, connecting Canadians through meaningful conversations about leadership, public policy, and the future of the country.