By: Boxer Exteriors • February 11, 2026 • 3 min. read
From Texas roots to Wheaton streets, Dawn Collins brings integrity, energy, and a personal touch to home improvement. Learn how this local entrepreneur built Boxer Exteriors on trust, craftsmanship, and a deep love for community.
Hi, I’m Dawn Collins! I’m the proud owner of Boxer Exteriors, a local roofing, siding, window, and gutter company that’s all about top-notch craftsmanship with a personal touch. Around here, we believe that doing the job right isn’t just about using the best materials—it’s about making homeowners feel supported, valued, and confident from start to finish.
I actually grew up in Texas, splitting my early years between Dallas and Houston. Life took a big turn just before my 16th birthday when I moved up to Illinois. I landed at Fremd High School in Palatine and later went on to Illinois State, before transferring to Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island to finish my degree. It’s safe to say I’ve had a little bit of everywhere shape who I am!
Before starting Boxer Exteriors, I spent years in advertising sales, where I learned how to build strong relationships, grow businesses, and lead teams. Eventually, I became Executive Director for EO Chicago, a non-profit for entrepreneurs. I spent eight years surrounded by inspiring, visionary business owners, and that’s when the entrepreneurial spark really hit me. I realized I wanted to build something of my own— something meaningful, where I could make a real difference.
About nine years ago, life brought me to Wheaton. My husband, Tony, grew up here—he’s a Wheaton North grad and knows every bit of local history (he loves to remind me!). When we were house-hunting, Wheaton just felt right. It’s got that perfect blend of community, charm, and family-friendly energy. We love everything about it—the Prairie Path, summer concerts, local shops, farmers’ markets—you’ll usually catch us out and about enjoying it all.
Tony and I have a blended family of five awesome kids: Harper (11), Bennett (13), Addison (20), Preston (23), and Peyton (24). Plus, we’ve got two Boxers, Murphy and Winnie, who are basically part of the family circus. Between our business, kids’ activities, dog walks, errands, gym time, and my ever-growing list of home design projects, life’s always full (but in the best way).
Starting Boxer Exteriors was more than just a career move for us. We saw firsthand how hard it can be to find contractors who are honest, reliable, and genuinely care. With Tony’s fifteen years of roofing experience and my background in leadership and business, we knew we could bring something different to the table. We wanted to create a company people could trust—one that shows up, does great work, and treats every home like it’s our own.
At Boxer, our core values aren’t just business buzzwords—they’re how we live our lives. We believe in being knowledgeable, customer-focused, accountable, reliable, reasonable, kind, grateful, and fully committed. We believe in doing what’s right, keeping our word, and always bringing a positive attitude.
Giving back is also a big part of who we are. We support local groups like DuPage Animal Friends and Naperville Humane Society, and we started our Raise the Roof program to help families who need critical roof repairs but can’t afford them. Every fall, we choose a deserving family to help—last year, we were honored to install a brand-new roof for Jamie Sessions, a single mom of two. Moments like that remind us why we do what we do. (Check out the full story on our Instagram—it’s one of my favorites!)
At the end of the day, what makes Boxer Exteriors special is simple: we’re family-owned, rooted in integrity, and genuinely invested in our customers and community. Our goal is to keep building something that not only delights the people we serve but also gives back to the place we call home—all while creating a life I love, one roof and one relationship at a time.
Tony and Judy Lavarda, Napervile, IL
The team worked efficiently, stayed responsive to phone calls, and were always professional, friendly, and positive. They came highly recommended and truly delivered. We continue to refer them to our friends and neighbors as well.
I highly recommend Boxer Exteriors
Great customer service. Dawn and her team went above and beyond. I highly recommend!!!!!💪🏻💪🏻
