New York City Mayor Eric Adams may be in the spotlight, but when it comes to his personal life, especially his relationship with his longtime girlfriend, Tracey Collins, he prefers to keep things private. Describing Collins as his “soulmate,” Adams has carefully shielded their relationship from the public eye, though their bond remains strong. Let’s explore the fascinating life of Tracey Collins and her connection to Eric Adams.
A Private Relationship in the Public Eye
Eric Adams, known for his political career and leadership as the mayor of New York City, has been quite secretive about his family life. His decision to keep his relationship with Tracey Collins under wraps dates back to his time as a police officer. As he mentioned during a press conference in June 2021, Adams has always aimed to protect those he loves from the chaos of public life. “My secrecy is my family. I signed up for this life. They did not sign up for this life,” he explained.
Adams’ desire to keep his personal affairs private continues, even as he navigates the challenges of being a public figure. In September 2024, Adams became the first sitting New York City mayor to face criminal charges, involving bribery and conspiracy. Despite these hurdles, he maintains his innocence and leans on his personal relationships, including his bond with Tracey Collins, to help him through.
Tracey Collins: Living in New Jersey
While Eric Adams resides in Brooklyn, Tracey Collins lives just across the Hudson River in Fort Lee, New Jersey, where they own a home together. Their New Jersey residence sparked rumors during the 2021 mayoral election, with some speculating that Adams lived outside the city. Adams clarified the situation, stating that while he co-owns a co-op in New Jersey with Collins, his primary residence is in Brooklyn.
Their Fort Lee home is located in a high-rise building with picturesque views of the Hudson River, a serene escape from the bustling life of New York City. Born and raised in New Orleans, Collins’ journey to New York City has been one of resilience, dedication, and hard work.
A Devoted Educator in the NYC School System
Collins has had a remarkable career as an educator. She began working in the New York City Department of Education in 2008, quickly rising through the ranks. Today, she serves as a senior advisor to the deputy chancellor for school leadership. Collins has a reputation for working long hours, often putting in 12-hour days to oversee schools in Brooklyn and The Bronx.
Adams praised Collins’ dedication to her job in his 2020 vegan cookbook, Healthy at Last, stating, “She never gets a break. She oversees the largest school system in the country, and I’ve never met anyone more devoted to their job.”
Tracey Collins at the Met Gala: A Rare Public Appearance
Collins is not one to seek the limelight, but she has accompanied Adams to a few high-profile events, including the 2022 Met Gala. Collins dazzled in an Oscar de la Renta gown, which was chosen with the help of Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. It was a significant event for the couple, with Adams introducing Collins as his “other half.”
Though they do not attend public events together often, Collins has been by Adams’ side at prestigious gatherings such as the U.S. Open and New York Fashion Week. These rare appearances offer glimpses of their strong bond and Collins’ support for Adams in his public role.
A Shared Vegan Journey
Collins and Adams share more than just a home and a life together—they also share a commitment to healthy living. The couple adopted a vegan lifestyle after both were diagnosed with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes, respectively. In Healthy at Last, Adams recounts how they transitioned to a plant-based diet, losing 30 pounds each and discovering new ways to prepare their favorite dishes in healthier forms.
For Collins, this meant letting go of some of her cherished childhood meals, including jambalaya. Adams’ cookbook describes how they fully embraced their new lifestyle together, emphasizing that they “aren’t people who do something halfway.”
A Published Author and Advocate
Tracey Collins isn’t just known for her work in education—she’s also a published author. Her 2008 book, Sweet Promptings: Showing Compassion for Others, is an inspirational guide that highlights the power of random acts of kindness. Adams wrote the foreword to the book, and a portion of the proceeds was donated to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.
In addition to her writing, Collins founded the nonprofit organization Fully Persuaded for Children & Families in 2007. The organization aimed to improve social-emotional learning and reduce violence in communities through education and advocacy. Adams was a strong supporter of Collins’ initiatives, especially the “Stop the Sag” billboard campaign in 2010, which encouraged young men to pull up their sagging pants as a sign of respect.
Although Fully Persuaded closed its doors in 2015, Collins’ legacy of advocacy and education continues through her work in the New York City Department of Education.
A Rarely Seen but Deeply Connected Couple
Though Collins and Adams do not often make public appearances together, their relationship remains a crucial part of their lives. Their bond is evident in the way they support each other’s careers and personal goals. Whether it’s attending the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade or cheering each other on during professional milestones, Collins and Adams remain deeply connected.
In a rare moment of public affection, the couple stood side-by-side during the parade, wishing New Yorkers a happy holiday season. It’s these small, intimate moments that reveal the strength of their relationship, even in the face of challenges.
Conclusion
Eric Adams and Tracey Collins may not be a couple often seen in the limelight, but their partnership is one built on mutual respect, love, and shared values. From their joint vegan journey to their advocacy for education and social causes, they remain a strong and supportive pair. Collins’ influence on Adams is clear, both personally and professionally, making her an integral part of his life and leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Eric Adams married to Tracey Collins?
No, Eric Adams is not married to Tracey Collins. However, they have been in a long-term relationship and share a deep connection.
2. Where does Tracey Collins live?
Tracey Collins lives in Fort Lee, New Jersey, where she co-owns a home with Eric Adams. However, Adams maintains his primary residence in Brooklyn, New York.
3. What does Tracey Collins do for a living?
Tracey Collins works as a senior advisor to the deputy chancellor for school leadership in the New York City Department of Education. She has been an educator for many years.
4. Did Eric Adams and Tracey Collins go vegan together?
Yes, both Eric Adams and Tracey Collins adopted a vegan diet after being diagnosed with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes, respectively. They have since embraced a plant-based lifestyle.
5. Is Tracey Collins involved in charity work?
Yes, Tracey Collins founded the nonprofit organization Fully Persuaded for Children & Families, which focused on social-emotional education and reducing violence in communities. The organization closed in 2015.