January 10, 2000

Ella Grasso's place in U.S. history will always be assured. As the first woman elected in her own right to the Governor's office, she blazed a trail which many have followed. But as we pause to commemorate the 25th anniversary of her inauguration, it is her service to the state and place in the hearts of Connecticut's people that is her true legacy.

A gifted and hard-working political leader, the well being of the people of Connecticut was always her first priority. As Secretary of State, she turned her office into a "people's lobby,"opening the doors to any citizen seeking help. In Congress, she fought to create and protect jobs and serve those who had served our nation from her posts on the Education and Labor and Veterans' Affairs Committees. As Governor, she worked to put the state's fiscal house in order.

Probably the most memorable image we all have of Ella is from the 1978 blizzard. She worked round the clock doing whatever it took– directing emergency operations, keeping the public informed, even shoveling snow– to help those in need. Her actions captured the essence of a woman who loved Connecticut and its people and worked tirelessly to serve them.

Ella was taken from us much too soon and the loss is still deeply felt. But so long as we honor her, be it through public or community service, from passing legislation to helping a neighbor dig their car out of the snow, she is with us.