The Interview: Ashley Collins
From Staff Reports
This month, The Paper visited with Ashley Collins, President and CEO of Newnan-Coweta Habitat for Humanity for its May Q&A.
Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.
I’m Ashley Collins, and I have the incredible honor of serving as the President and CEO of Newnan-Coweta Habitat for Humanity. At my core, I’m a servant leader — someone who believes that God placed me here to help build things that last: homes, hope and stronger communities. I’ve led transformational projects through community engagement, most recently at Ashley Park, and now I’m bringing that same energy and purpose to Habitat. Everything I do is grounded in my faith, my love for people, and the belief that I was created to do big things during the 100 years God gives me here. Outside of my career, I’m a proud mom to two amazing little girls, Palmer and Piper. Being their mom is one of the greatest joys of my life. I’m also married to my college sweetheart, Tim — we met at Georgia Southern and have been walking through life side by side ever since. My family is my foundation and my biggest inspiration.
Best piece of advice you’ve received.
“Do it scared, but do it anyway.” Faith doesn’t always mean having all the answers — it means trusting God enough to move forward when the vision is bigger than your fear.
If I had it to do over …
I would have stopped striving for perfection and started resting in God’s timing a lot sooner. Every detour, delay, and closed door had a purpose I couldn’t see at the time.
You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?
Albums:
“The Ultimate Michael Bolton” – Michael Bolton
“Hotel California” – The Eagles
“Hard Love” – Needtobreathe
Books:
• The Bible — my anchor, always
• Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen
• Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt
Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know.
I collect vintage cookbooks from the South — not just for the recipes, but for the stories and traditions tucked between the pages. They remind me of a time when hospitality was an art form, not a task.
You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why?
Robin Williams – His unique ability to blend humor and deep humanity has always inspired me. He was a master at showing us that laughter and vulnerability go hand in hand, and that’s something I’d love to learn more about over dinner.
Mr. Rogers – The epitome of kindness, humility, and the power of showing up for others. I’d invite him to remind us all how much our actions, no matter how small, can make the world a better place.
My grandmother, Shirley Corbitt – She was my idol — a true Southern lady with unmatched hospitality. Her love for the holidays and her ability to make everyone feel welcome and cherished is something I carry with me every day. I’d want her at the table to share her wisdom and warmth.
Walt Disney – The visionary who built an empire not just of entertainment, but of inspiration. His creativity, resilience, and ability to dream big have always fascinated me. I’d love to hear his thoughts on the intersection of imagination and impact.
Gordon Ramsay – Not only for his culinary brilliance, but because his “colorful” commentary would keep things lively. I’d love to see him judge my cooking and offer his unfiltered, entertaining take on the meal. His no-nonsense attitude and humor would definitely add some spice to the conversation, especially when it comes to perfection, leadership, and, of course, who’s made the worst dish!
Name an as yet unfulfilled dream.
One of my biggest dreams is to one day serve as a U.S. Senator — to use my voice and platform to shape policy that truly uplifts families and communities, especially those who have been overlooked for far too long. I want to be in the history books not for the title I held, but for the lives I helped change. I believe we were put on this earth to do big things — to fight for justice, to care boldly, and to leave this world better than we found it. That dream drives me every day, and I pray I live long enough to see it through.
If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …
A Disney princess — but not the kind who waits in a tower. I’d be the one out in the community, organizing, building, mentoring, and singing while I do it. I’ve always believed in the power of kindness, courage, and a little sparkle to change the world. Plus, I’m pretty sure every great leader needs a good anthem and a sidekick with fur.
Your go-to food.
Spicy shrimp and grits. Soulful, Southern, and satisfying — a dish that feels like home.
Favorite movie(s).
I have an eclectic list — each one speaks to a different part of who I am. Jurassic Park, Lord of the Rings, and Jaws feed my love of suspense and storytelling. Braveheart, Good Will Hunting, and Dead Poets Society stir something deeper — a call to live boldly and think differently. I adore the heart in Forrest Gump, The Notebook, and Steel Magnolias, and I’ll always have a soft spot for the magic of Hook, Ever After, and Mrs. Doubtfire. And when the holidays hit? It’s Home Alone, Christmas Vacation, and The Muppet Christmas Carol on repeat. Each film reminds me of the beauty, mess, and meaning of being human.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs — hands down. They love without conditions, and that’s something we all need more of. I also love working with Joey’s Friends, a local rescue organization whose mission is rooted in compassion and driven by a profound commitment to improving the lives of animals in need. They focus on rescuing dogs who have faced abuse, neglect, or the heartbreaking risk of euthanasia in overcrowded shelters. Alongside my dear friend Millie, I support their efforts to help these animals find the loving homes they deserve. It’s a beautiful reminder that love — whether for people or pets — can be the first step toward healing and belonging.
Your favorite quote and why.
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Seuss This quote resonates with me because it distills the essence of responsibility and love into something so simple, yet so profound. It’s a quiet challenge — a reminder that change isn’t waiting on policy or permission, but on the courage of individuals to care deeply and act intentionally. To me, it’s about the quiet power of empathy — the belief that love, when translated into action, has the ability to reshape neighborhoods, restore dignity, and reimagine what’s possible for others. It starts with caring, but it doesn’t stop there. It moves, it builds, it uplifts. Every small interaction you have with others – matters.
Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished.
Leaning into the fact that I’m wired a little differently — and letting that be my superpower. My grandpa once told my dad, “Son, most people are wired 110, and you’re wired 220 — that’s a gift.” My dad passed that spark down to me, and I’m proud I’ve never tried to dim it.
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own?
God’s timing is perfect. Trust that your gifts will make room for you, and never shrink to fit into spaces you were meant to transform. You are more than enough — not because of what you do, but because of who you are and whose you are.
