During a retirement party for Mark and Monique Conroy at the end of the 2023-24 academic year, longtime teacher, administrator, and coach Jen Fulcher, who worked with Monique Conroy in myriad roles at Williston, delivered a speech about what Monique Conroy meant to the school. Below are her remarks from that event.
Monique has been at the core of what has made Williston such an amazing place for students for over two decades. She is a role model and mom with every part of her soul, to her own kids and to every Williston kid—whether she taught them, coached them, or cheered for them while running the clock at a basketball game. She exudes caring. She makes them feel safe and supported.
I coached with Mo for years, and she was prepared in a way I never was. Any need a kid had, Mo had the answer or supplies. “Coach, do you have a hair tie?” they would ask, looking at me. Really? But Mo would have one, or find one. A player was hungry. Out of the Mary Poppins backpack came a sealed plastic bag with snacks. You’d think she was sharing her own snacks with them, but no. These were just for kids. I never saw her eat anything out of that bag in all my years with her. She packed what the kids might need—physically, intellectually, and emotionally.
As a math teacher, she was nothing short of phenomenal. In a subject that at times intimidates and overwhelms, Mo created a sanctuary of learning. She had the gift of making mathematics accessible and engaging, which turned students’ apprehension into enthusiasm. Her students didn’t just learn math; they felt empowered by it. She made them believe in themselves, helping them feel smart and capable. Her unwavering commitment to their success was evident in everything she did.
Mo’s ability to connect with students was unparalleled. They sought her advice and trusted her implicitly because they knew she genuinely cared. She had an innate ability to see each student’s potential, even when they couldn’t see it themselves. She was a beacon of hope and encouragement, guiding them through their challenges and celebrating their successes. As an advisor, she played a pivotal role in shaping the lives and futures of countless students.
I have seen her work with students that were close to the edge of giving up on something—a tough subject, a hard challenge, even themselves— and her support was key in helping them stay engaged and ultimately walk through the graduation line with pride and confidence for what the future holds. And behind this growth and change of mindset was Mo.
