Statecraft & Independence
Distinguished
Wilmot Collins
born 1963
From Liberian refugee to the first Black mayor in Montana
Distinguished is level 3 of 4 in the Liberia Hall of Fame: sustained excellence over a career, widely honoured at home. See how the levels work.
Why they are here
He arrived in Helena, Montana as a refugee from the civil war in 1994, and twenty-three years later was elected its mayor — the first Black mayor in the state's history.
Born in October 1963, Wilmot Collins fled Liberia during the First Liberian Civil War and reached Helena, Montana as a refugee in 1994.
He was elected mayor of Helena, becoming the first Black mayor in Montana. He is a first cousin of the journalist Helene Cooper.
He was elected mayor of Helena, becoming the first Black mayor in Montana. He is a first cousin of the journalist Helene Cooper.
Spotted something wrong? Tell us and we will check it.