[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 139 (Tuesday, August 21, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1166]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       IN MEMORY OF GENE CONNOLLY, CONCORD HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

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                           HON. ANN M. KUSTER

                            of new hampshire

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 21, 2018

  Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and 
remember the life of Gene Connolly, the beloved former Concord High 
School Principal, who inspired his community through his unmatched 
strength and grace in the face of adversity. Connolly epitomized the 
slogan ``Connolly Strong''. Despite his diagnosis with ALS in 2014, 
Connolly constantly showed persistence, humility and courage, 
continuing to greet his students every morning as they arrived at 
school. Even after retiring in 2016, Connolly remained an educator at 
heart, dedicated to teaching and serving as a trusted mentor to many 
Concord High students.
  While Connolly commonly cited the Concord community and schools as 
sources of consistent and loyal support throughout his battle with ALS, 
I know that his fighting spirit and openness about his struggle also 
inspired and elevated the entire Concord community. The 2017 
documentary, Mr. Connolly has ALS, highlights how Connolly inspired his 
students, colleagues and friends. The documentary, revolving around 
questions submitted by his students, tells a powerful story of how 
disabled members of our society can still live fulfilling lives and 
give so much to their communities.
  As a proud alumna of Concord High School and the Concord public 
schools, I express my profound gratitude for Connolly and his many 
years of devoted service to New Hampshire's students. He will be 
greatly missed, but his memory and spirit will live on in the students 
and the community he loved so deeply. I extend my deepest condolences 
to his family and wish them and the entire Concord High School 
community comfort during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.

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