Eric Collins

Chief Programs Officer

“In life you’re either learning and growing or staying stagnant. I choose to expand my skills and share my knowledge with others so we can live happy, productive lives. Pay it forward.”

Eric Collins is the Chief Program Officer for IPS, where he provides executive leadership and support in the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of more than a dozen Southern California-based public health and safety programs funded by foundations and a mix of federal, state, and local agencies.

Mr. Collins develops and manages senior-level relationships with a wide range of external stakeholders, including legislators, elected officials, municipal and county government agencies, law enforcement partners, community-based and charitable organizations, advocacy groups, school administrators, and business and community leaders.

In his role, he is also responsible for guiding the development and implementation of strategic communications and community engagement plans that advance public health and safety policies. He also assists IPS’s dedicated staff members in designing and delivering community outreach events that address the social determinants of health and support public health equity initiatives.

A former journalist, Mr. Collins has always been passionate about community-based advocacy and the media coverage of stories where authentic community organizing provides more resources to underserved communities.

Before his role as Chief Program Officer, Eric held several positions at IPS, including Vice President of Programs, Director of the Alcohol Policy Panel of San Diego County, Program Manager of the San Diego County Binge and Underage Drinking Initiative, and Media Coordinator for an Edward Bryne Memorial Justice Grant focused on preventing child sex trafficking, gang prevention and a project that focused on improving community relations with local law enforcement.

Mr. Collins has served on the Steering Committee for the California Alcohol Policy Alliance (CAPA) and has presented at several national conferences focused on alcohol and drug prevention.

He received his bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Southern California.