Jack Connors, the esteemed advertising executive and co-founder of Hill Holliday, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 82, according to The Boston Globe. Connors, who succumbed to cancer, was renowned for his unwavering commitment to both his profession and his beloved hometown of Boston.
A Boston Legacy
Connors co-founded Hill Holliday (originally Hill Holliday Connors Cosmopulos) in 1968, shortly after leaving BBDO when asked to relocate to Detroit for a promotion. His deep roots in Boston were evident as he built his agency there, serving as CEO until 2003. In 2011, Connors was inducted into the Advertising Hall of Fame.
Hill Holliday was a cornerstone of Boston’s advertising scene, and Connors’s influence extended beyond the agency. Despite opportunities to move to New York with Interpublic Group, Connors chose to stay in Boston, highlighting his dedication to his city.
A Legacy of Generosity
According to AdAge, Connors was known not only for his business acumen but also for his philanthropy. He supported numerous organizations, including Mass General Brigham, Boston College, and the Campaign for Catholic Schools. His dedication to community service was evident in his work with Camp Harbor View, a day camp he co-founded with then-Boston Mayor Tom Menino in 2007. The camp, which supports disadvantaged children, recently celebrated a record-breaking fundraising total of $13.4 million.
Massachusetts Cardinal Seán O’Malley and Governor Maura Healey praised Connors for his civic leadership and generosity. Healey noted, “Jack Connors was a leader in business, but his most lasting legacy will come from his generosity and philanthropy.”
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Personal Reflections
Connors’s personal motto, “I have nothing more to prove, but a lot more to give,” encapsulated his approach to both his professional and personal life. His tireless work ethic and commitment to helping others left a lasting impact on his community.
Survived by his wife, Eileen, and four children, including John Connors, CEO of Boston-based agency Boathouse, Jack Connors’s legacy will continue through the many lives he touched and the community he cherished.
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