About Ryan
Dedicated to serving the Stillwater community
Ryan Collins isn't just a public servant. He's a husband, a father, a neighbor, and teacher who understands the importance of showing up for his family, for his students, and for his community. He knows that real change happens not in speeches but in the everyday work of listening, showing up, and following through.
Roots in service
Ryan was born and raised in Hastings, Minnesota. He was taught to understand the importance of getting involved in the community. Ryan’s father founded the local athletic association in Hastings and instilled in him the importance of volunteering back when Ryan was still in elementary school, a value that has stayed with him ever since. After graduating high school, he attended the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, earning a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in political science. Once he decided to pursue a career in education, he continued his studies at UW-River Falls, where he met Lisa and completed a Master of Science in Education. He went on to become a middle school history teacher at Mahtomedi Middle School, a position he has now held for 25 years.Ryan’s father founded the local athletic association in Hastings and instilled in him the importance of volunteering back when Ryan was still in elementary school — a value that has stayed with him ever since. After graduating high school, he attended the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, earning a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in political science. Once he decided to pursue a career in education, he continued his studies at UW-River Falls, where he met Lisa and completed a Master of Science in Education. He went on to become a middle school history teacher at Mahtomedi Middle School, a position he has now held for 25 years.
"After meeting my wife Lisa, I never imagined calling anywhere but Stillwater home" Ryan says. "Stillwater is a special place. The river, the neighborhoods, the people, and the charm. I wanted to be part of making it better, not just watching it from somewhere else."
Family first
Ryan and his wife, Lisa, have lived in Stillwater for over 23 years. They have two children, Alexis and Preston. Lisa is a registered nurse at Lakeview Hospital.
Family is at the center of everything Ryan does. When he votes on funding for community improvements, public safety, or infrastructure, he's thinking about the same streets his kids ride their bikes, the same parks where his family visits, and the same library that is so important to our community.
Community involvement
In addition to being on the Stillwater City Council, Ryan serves on the Middle St. Croix Watershed Management Organization Board of Managers, is the Stillwater Library Board of Trustees Council Liaison, and the Stillwater Historical Preservation Commission Council Liaison. He is also on the Washington County Historical Society Board of Directors, where he serves as Vice President. He is a board member on the Friends of Lily Lake.
Ryan believes that showing up every day is what separates a real public servant from a career politician.
What drives Ryan
Three things Ryan believes in
Integrity
Ryan knows that difficult decisions sometimes have to be made. His actions are driven by doing what is right and acting in the best interest of his constituents and the community.
Listening first
Ryan believes that leadership starts with listening. Not just hearing, but really listening to the people who trust him with their concerns. That's the leader he's been, and the leader he'll continue to be.
Showing up
Ryan makes sure he is prepared for council meetings by reading the information and reaching out to experts when he needs to know more about a particular topic. His attendance is extraordinary, only missing two council meetings in two terms for important family events.