Brinston Collins, professor emeritus of political science at Norfolk (Va.) State University, died April 7, 2011. He was 74.

Collins graduated from Morehouse College in 1957 with a bachelor’s degree in history. In 1959, he earned a master’s degree in Arabic studies from the American University of Beirut. He then taught for a semester at Elizabeth City College and for three years at Norfolk State before coming to Princeton.

In 1965 he received a master’s degree and in 1969 a Ph.D. in Oriental languages and literature from Princeton. Collins rejoined Norfolk State, taught in its political science department, and retired as professor emeritus. As an emeritus, he remained a member of his department’s Consortium for Strategic and Global Studies until his death.

Collins specialized in the history, politics, and culture of the Middle East. Fluent in Arabic, he took part in many local and international forums, lectures, and conferences.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; two children; and three grandchildren.

Graduate memorials are prepared by the APGA.

Graduate Class of 1969