UTA Libraries Staff Spotlight: Collin Stephenson

Collin Stephenson has devoted his life to helping others. This value can be seen in his professional life as UTA Libraires' new Research Success librarian and as a foster parent in his personal life. 

In his new role at the library, Collin will be heading up the Research Mavs program. Research Mavs is a student-to-student tutoring program for research needs. 

"The Research Mavs is a team of student employees that I will train to do some functions that multidisciplinary and liaison librarians do. They are going to be tackling lower-level research needs," Collin said. "So, if a student needs help with finding an article and they are unfamiliar with databases, our Research Mavs will be able to step up and give them that instruction." 

Collin stated when this program starts in the spring semester, students with research needs can come by with or without an appointment. They also help to run the live chat on the library website throughout the day. 

The need to help others plays an important role in Collin's life outside the library's walls. About six months ago, Collin and his wife, Kelsey Stephenson, became foster parents, opening their home to children who needed love and support.  

"My wife and I were both public educators. Both of us had lots of experience working with students that were either adopted through the foster care program or were currently in foster care," he said. "Some of these kids had amazing experiences, while others were struggling. Some kids had been from house to house and had not found a permanent situation." 

Collin and Kelsey thought the best option to grow their family was by fostering or adopting children. He shared that they see a ton of value in opening up the doors of their home to people who need a family. 

"We approach (fostering) with the mindset that we want every child to go to the best place for them. That is not always with us. Sometimes it is with a family member, and sometimes it is the child returning to the parents," Collin said. "We are big believers in rehabilitation and reunification to get people back where they need to be." 

To Collin, fostering shares many similarities with working in public education. You work with a child over the year, building them up with knowledge, guidance and kindness, which helps move them forward in life. Fostering is similar, but it can sometimes be more emotional but just as rewarding. 

Collin, we are happy a person like you, who has a heart for people and will help them succeed, is a part of our team. 

We look forward to seeing what you will accomplish as you serve the community with your team of students.