Remembering the Legacy of Peg Connolly

 

Throughout her time at Hopkins, Connolly dedicated herself to improving the health program. Tessa Vandenpol ’27, a student in Connolly’s Health 10 class this past fall, said, “It was clear she wanted her students to succeed.” According to Vandenpol, Connolly fostered a welcoming class environment: “When we asked questions, she always answered thoroughly. She urged us to look at things from different perspectives and attitudes.” 

Nevis, who joined Connolly as a ninth and tenth-grade health teacher, recalled that his “first memories of Peg’s immediate impact were as a warm and supportive colleague.” As a new member of the Hopkins community, Nevis felt that “her understanding nature and openness to my new ideas in the health curriculum speaks volumes about her collaborative spirit and willingness to embrace change.” He noted the impact of her kindness on the Hopkins community, saying, “This kind of welcoming attitude can make a huge difference for someone new to a school."

Connolly’s influence extended to the athletic fields and pool, where she coached softball, swimming, field hockey, lacrosse, and soccer with dedication and heart. Maeve Phipps ’27, a Varsity softball catcher, praised her “energetic and positive attitude.” Hopkins softball captain A’nai Alvarez ’26 added that Connolly “was committed to making sure she taught every player at least one thing,” noting, “There are so many players I know that would say they are the softball players they are today because of her.” Phipps shared that the 2025 team played its season “for Peg,” who left a “huge impact on the softball program.”

Nevis believed “Peg’s greatest impact was her personal and lasting connection with every student, which is a powerful testament to her character.” Vandenpol agreed that Connolly “cared about people beyond their academic lives and would check on her students and encourage them to look at high school beyond just their grades.”  Krish Agarwal ’25, one of Connolly’s advisees, reflected that Connolly was his “biggest advocate in everything.” He said that, as an advisor, “she did more than what is expected.” According to Agarwal, Connolly, who “was always smiling and joyful and lifted our spirits,” made “Hopkins a way better place to be.” 

In honor of Connolly’s memory, Hopkins closed on April 7 to allow students, faculty, and staff to attend her funeral mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Hamden. A catered reception followed in the Heath Dining Hall, where a slideshow of photos from across Connolly’s life played in tribute. In a day marked by gratitude and reflection, friends, students, and colleagues gathered to honor her legacy and celebrate a life defined by joy, warmth, and service.

“[Connolly] is really missed,” Nevis said. “I wish she was still with us.”