[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 22 (Thursday, February 2, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S226]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                   REMEMBERING QUENTIN ``Q'' WILLIAMS

 Mr. BLUMENTHAL. Madam President, I rise today with a heavy 
heart to pay tribute to Quentin ``Q'' Williams, a dedicated public 
servant, advocate, and friend to many. Tragically, State Representative 
Williams passed away on January 5, 2023, at the age of 39. He will be 
remembered for his commitment to Connecticut and passion for helping 
others.
  A lifelong resident of Middletown, CT, Q was killed in an automobile 
accident just one day after being sworn in for a third term as State 
representative, a beautiful life cut tragically short, a bright light 
extinguished.
  Raised by a single mother in Middletown, Q accomplished so much in 
his short career. After graduating from Middletown Public Schools, he 
earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Bryant 
University, and a master of public administration from Villanova 
University--excellent preparation for a professional career dedicated 
to serving others.
  Q began his career in community banking in Hartford before pursuing 
nonprofit management. In 2012, he was named executive director of the 
Middletown Downtown Business District and launched the community's 
first ``Middletown Restaurant Week,'' enhancing the community and 
economic vitality of the city's Main Street. Q served as director of 
advocacy and policy for Excellence Community Schools, a charter school 
network, and cofounded EquityCT, an education nonprofit. He was also 
active in many charitable and service organizations with a generous 
spirit that served him well in public service.
  In 2019, Q was elected as the first Black State legislator from 
Middletown. As State representative, Q took great pride in championing 
social and racial equality, human rights, and accessible housing. He 
supported youth programs to help the next generation prepare for 
successful futures. There is no telling where Q's energy and passion 
could have taken him and how much good he would have continued to do 
for his community and the state of Connecticut.
  At two recent church ceremonies, in Middletown and Bloomfield, 
friends and colleagues of Q's spoke of his love and loyalty, his jovial 
spirit, and deeply genuine generosity. At the time of his death, 
Representative Williams was looking forward to serving as the new house 
chair of the labor and public employees committee. Over the last 
several weeks, at ceremonies honoring him, I have spoken to his 
wonderful family. I have been among scores of people paying their 
respects to Q--a stirring testament to his positive impact.
  My wife Cynthia and I extend our deepest sympathies to Q's family 
during this difficult time, particularly to his wife Carrissa and 
mother Queen. I hope my colleagues will join me in honoring Q's life 
and legacy, both large and lasting.

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