NFI’s John Connelly dies

In a statement, the non-profit seafood industry trade group said: “Today we mourn the loss of a fierce advocate, a loving father, a cherished husband, a beloved brother, an esteemed leader, and to so many a mentor and simply friend. John Connelly was the third President of the National Fisheries Institute (NFI) and a man who drove fundamental change with wit, foresight, and honesty. His impact and loss is immeasurable.”

The statement continued, “The catalogue of John’s achievements is lengthy, including the creation of the Better Seafood Board; the merger of the National Tuna Federation and subsequent development of the NFI Council system; plus, the annual Global Seafood Market Conference; the conception of the Seafood Nutrition Partnership; and contributing his steady voice on multiple industry boards. NFI members will long remember John’s unwavering presence and leadership during the early days of the pandemic. These are just a few of the contributions that will have a lasting impact.

“Even before falling ill, John had announced his retirement for February 2023 and spent 2022 preparing for a smooth transition of leadership.

“Our sympathy and prayers are with his wife Margaret, his children Kate (Jack), Jack (Rui), Bridget (John) and Maggie (Ryan), his extended family, friends and his colleagues from around the globe.”

To honour Connelly, NFI in cooperation with Holy Cross alumni Sean O’Scannlain and Chris Ruettgers, has established The John Connelly Intern Scholarship at the College of the Holy Cross Worcester, MA, to benefit the Semester in DC Programme.

The scholarship will be awarded annually to an NFI advocacy intern and will also serve to benefit other interns at Washington, DC food trade associations.

NFI has already named Lisa Wallenda Picard as incoming President & CEO of the association. Picard joins NFI from the National Turkey Federation (NFT) where she is the Senior Vice President for Policy, Trade and Regulatory Affairs.