The William F. Connell School of Nursing - who would have thought…
Bill's interest in nursing dates back to his Boston College days when he audited St. Mary's Hospital in Palm Beach, Florida. Part of the deal was free room and board. He didn't know he had to actually live in the hospital - which was pretty grim. Finally, he persuaded Jimmy Dunn, his B.C. professor, mentor and boss to give him a weekend allowance to live "off campus." Thus, the love affair begins.
Needless to say, Boston College nurses enjoy an outstanding reputation for their care and commitment. This was especially evident when Bill became ill and was at the Mass General. Many of his attending nurses were BC graduates.
Our daughter, Lisa, a 1989 nursing school graduate, exemplifies this. A charge nurse at Brigham & Women's Hospital for several years, she now "nurses" at home to her full house – four children and her husband, John.
The Boston College School of Nursing, now affectionately called The Connell School, continues to grow with Dean Barbara Munro at the helm. She is probably one of the most dedicated and lovely people I know, and we are lucky to have her. She continues to be successful while maintaining a very low profile. One of her multiple achievements includes a Doctoral program for nurses. This is something Bill advocated from the beginning as vital to the success of any nursing program. It seems his dreams are coming to fruition.
This distinctive honor, naming the school for Bill, is a most inspiring gesture. We, as a family, and I as half of the "Connell Unlimited Partnership," are thrilled and delighted. Bill saw the need and importance early on and now we, as a family, are committed to its continued success. We all feel it is so important and so crucial to continue a superior nursing program at BC and, as you know, Bill always advocated more, rather than less.
Senator Kennedy, we love you for your support and inspiration. Just to think you agreed to be a part of this event is monumental. I know how busy your schedule is and how you so graciously worked very hard to accommodate us - no small task. Thank you, too, Barbara Souliotis – you are one special lady.
Father Leahy made this day possible, and I promise you with Bill behind us, we will see to it that this nursing school succeeds in all that it can. Your support and friendship are much appreciated.
Fr. Monan, as always, is here, there and everywhere for us as a family - supporting us in all our endeavors, especially this one. You are truly a special friend.
My children: Monica, Lisa, Courtenay, Billy, Terry and Tim, all graduates of Boston College and all present here today, are so very proud. And, I am so very proud of them.
To all our friends here today, I thank you, my family thanks you and I know Bill thanks you.