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Updated: 7 hours ago / 2025 40 Under 40 honorees

40 Under 40: Mathew Collins is turning neurodivergence into a superpower

Photo / Tim Greenway Mathew Collins, 35: Vice president, strategy and partnerships, Andwell Health Partners
Mathew Collins, 35 Vice president, strategy and partnerships, Andwell Health Partners Read all about the 40 Under 40 honorees
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Greatest achievement: My greatest achievement was helping my dog Luna achieve a full functional recovery after an injury that left her paralyzed and unable to walk.

Passion project: Restoring a 1978 Boston Whaler, allowing me to continue the Collins family tradition of quality time on the water.

Lightbulb moment: Experiencing the first big a-ha moment of a physics student I tutored was profound — a bolt of joy, pride and inspiration. The experience showed me that I was most fulfilled when empowering others to overcome adversity and achieve outcomes they didn’t think were possible.

Influential book: “Chemistry, 17th edition” by Steven and Susan Zumdahl. In high school, I struggled to read and learn in the classroom due to my neurodivergence. A high school teacher advocated that I not pursue a career path I expressed interest in because of my challenges in her chemistry class. I went on to score in the top 10% in a national standardized organic chemistry exam and became a tutor in general chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry for neurodivergent college students. This chemistry textbook and the support of Professor Susan Baker ignited untapped potential, helped me learn to turn my neurodivergence into a superpower. I will carry on Professor Baker’s legacy and do everything I can to ensure all people have an equitable chance to find their light and pursue their dreams.

Favorite TV show: “The Office”

Personal hero: My dad modeled what it meant to be a person of integrity, to be disciplined and balanced in decision-making.

Favorite quote: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” —African proverb.

Best way to recharge: Boating, walking with my dogs, shinrin-yoku [forest bathing] and reading.

Maine’s biggest challenge: The need to expand Maine’s health care workforce to ensure future generations have equitable access to care.

Dinner party guests: Plato, Aristotle and the Dalai Lama — exploring their distinct perspectives on the meaning of life and how to pursue it.

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