CCE was launched from the work Margaret directed at the Piedmont Triad Partnership based in Greensboro. She led the creative economy initiative between 2007-2011. Prior to her move to North Carolina, she worked in New York City as an Artist Manager and Senior Booking Representative for ICM Artists. Her work entailed booking concert engagements for the ICM roster throughout the Southeast, managing soloists and attractions. Other positions held in NYC include Shaw Concerts, Vice President, and Frank Salomon Associates, Artist Manager.  

Collins has been named a Triad Power Player by the Triad Business Journal, and is a leader in the Winston-Salem Entrepreneurial ecosystem.  Nationally, she is a co-founder of the Creative Economy Coalition. Originally from Shelby, NC, Collins attended Wake Forest University and UNC School of the Arts receiving a B. A. in music from WFU studying trombone and piano. In Washington DC, she received an M.A. from The American University in Performing Arts: Arts Management. Margaret enjoys playing in the Winston-Salem Community Band, practicing yoga, and hiking on scenic trails. Her husband Ray Collins is the founder of TrueVoice, a vocal presentation coaching business. They have a son, Michael, who works as a sports broadcaster for Learfield Communications. Connect with Margaret at margaret@ccetriad.com