J. Michael Collins
Faculty Director, Center for Financial Security, University of Wisconsin – Madison
Faculty Director, Center for Financial Security, University of Wisconsin – Madison
J. Michael Collins is faculty director of the Center for Financial Security at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He is a faculty affiliate of the UW-Extension, Cooperative Extension, the Institute for Research on Poverty, and the La Follette School of Public Affairs. Collins studies consumer decision-making in the financial marketplace, including the role of public policy in influencing credit, savings and investment choices. His work includes the study of financial capability with a focus on low-income families. He directed the Social Security Administration Financial Literacy Research Consortium site at Wisconsin (2009-2012). He is currently involved in studies of mortgage foreclosure and family well-being supported by the John D and Catherine T. MacArthur foundation, financial counseling supported by the Annie E. Casey foundation, and emergency savings policies for the C.S. Mott Foundation. Collins brings nearly a decade of applied experience to his research. He founded PolicyLab Consulting Group, a research consulting firm working with national foundations and government agencies, and co-founded MortgageKeeper Referral Services, an online database for mortgage servicers and counselors. He also worked for NeighborWorks America (Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation) and the Millennial Housing Commission. He holds a Masters from the John F. Kennedy School of Government, a PhD from Cornell University, and a BS from Miami University (OH).