Lori Collins is a graduate of North Carolina State University. She obtained a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Biochemistry and a Bachelor’s of Art Degree in Chemistry. After spending seven years in the pharmaceutical industry, Lori followed her true passion – education – and obtained her teaching certificate through NC Teach. Her education career began as a Science teacher in Johnston County. While there, Lori served as a mentor, lead science teacher, and grade level chairperson. In 2009, she graduated with her Master’s in School Administration and Curriculum and Instruction. While continuing to work in Johnston County, Lori wrote curriculum for the county and became Site Coordinator for Leadership and Assistance for the Science Education Reform (LASER) grant which was funded by the Smithsonian Institute to improve STEM learning in K-12 classrooms. Lori receive additional training at WestEd in California, a nonpartisan, nonprofit research, development, and service agency.

In 2013 Lori joined the staff at AG Cox Middle School where she later became an assistant principal. Currently she serves as Teacher Support Coordinator for Pitt County Schools through the Department of Educator Effectiveness and Leadership.