The Confederation Centre of the Arts Announces New Director for the Palmer Canadian Leadership Institute 

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. 

Prior to joining the Centre in 2026, Dr. Collins held senior policy roles with the Government of Prince Edward Island and Canada’s Department of National Defence. He also served as an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Prince Edward Island, where he will continue as an Adjunct Professor. 

“Dr. Collins’ deep understanding of Canadian public policy, combined with his passion for national dialogue and leadership development, makes him an ideal fit for the Palmer Canadian Leadership Institute,” said Steve Bellamy, CEO of the Confederation Centre of the Arts. “We are excited for Jeff to bring his vision and love of Canada to the Centre’s commitment for strengthening the country and engaging the public in thoughtful, forward-looking leadership conversations.” 

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,” said 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. 

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. 

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About the Palmer Canadian Leadership Institute 

Recently named through a transformative $1 million gift from the Palmer Family Foundation to the Confederation Centre’s Shared Voices Campaign, the Palmer Canadian Leadership Institute honours the legacy of the late James (Jim) Palmer; a respected lawyer, civic leader, and lifelong champion of public policy and Canadian institutions. With Prince Edward Island family roots reaching back to Confederation itself, including a Father of Confederation, Jim Palmer believed leadership required professional excellence, empathy, and a commitment to giving back. Those values continue to guide the Institute today. 

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. 

For more information, visit confederationcentre.com. 

Media Contact: 
Jillian O’Halloran 
Confederation Centre of the Arts 
📧 [email protected] 
📞 902- 628-6137 🌐 confederationcentre.com