by Francine Soliz
There are heroes that see fame with people knowing their names, but there are some heroes we have yet to uncover.Born in Buffalo, New York Patricia Collins has come a long to Minarets.
Her father working in construction lead to a life of traveling. Patricia moved to 11 different schools claiming “I think it was cool to learn to be adaptable and go to different school, with new friends. Gave me a broad perspective." Collins studied in business and in administration and hearing about a new school ,that would later be name Minarets High School, Collins gathered courage to interview for the secretary position. Patricia Collins had been here for 10 years, since Minarets High School has been built. Working as a secretary Patricia registers new students, creates appointments, answers phone calls and emails, she is Principal Ching’s right hand. Being at the school so long there are bound to be stories. Collins explained to me how she saved the former principal Michael Niehoff: “Walking from work it just rained we almost stepped on a rattlesnake , he stopped and asked ‘What are you going to do?’, that’s when I started whacking the rattle snake with my umbrella”. From working as a secretary and saving the principle ,Mrs. Collins is truly incredible.
Yet it was her fights against cancer, a number of 4 times, that proves how strong-willed Patricia Collins is. Losing her hair and going through treatments Patricia didn’t falter to keep going. After a successful surgery, Collins has been cancer free for 2 years. I asked what made Minarets a home, a place to continue working at, Patricia replied “It’s pretty amazing staff and students, every year it gets better. It is what this school does, the teachers and how they impact students lives, and watching kids mature”. Patricia is described as generous and kind , being able to interact and welcome others. Patricia Collins is the hero behind the scenes.