Norman H. Conway studied hard to earn his B.A. in education from then-Salisbury State Teachers College, culminating with his graduation in 1965.
Little did he know that was just the beginning of a lifetime of hard work he would do for his Alma Mater — or that nearly half a century later, he would be back up on stage at Commencement, receiving recognition from a grateful academic community for those efforts.
During Salisbury University’s 89th-year Fall Commencement at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center, President Janet Dudley-Eshbach presented the long-serving state delegate with the inaugural SU President’s Medal in recognition of his service to the citizens of Maryland and support of education. The new award honors individuals for their contributions and dedication to SU’s mission, vision and success.
“Not many individuals understand everything that goes into funding the construction of new academic buildings or navigating the political waters of Annapolis,” said Dudley-Eshbach. “For 27 years, Salisbury University has had one of the most humble, yet influential, advocates working on our behalf in the Maryland General Assembly in Delegate Norman Conway. Salisbury University’s ability to grow and expand has been due in large part to the efforts of this one man.”
After earning his undergraduate degree, Conway returned to SU to pursue his M.Ed., which he received in 1972. He became a well-known figure in the Wicomico County education community as a teacher, vice principal and principal. During this time, he was elected to the Salisbury City Council, serving four years as president. In 1986, he was elected to the House of Delegates, quickly rising through the ranks of leadership. He was named chair of the Capital Budget Subcommittee in 1996 and chair of the powerful Appropriations Committee in 2003, serving in that capacity for more than a decade.
Conway ensured that every jurisdiction across the State of Maryland received its fair share of resources. “Chairman Conway always emphasized the importance of ‘One Maryland,’” said Dudley-Eshbach, giving voice to those areas of the State, like Western Maryland and the Eastern Shore, that largely were marginalized.
“In an age when politics has become increasingly negative and characterized by brinksmanship and an inability to compromise, Delegate Conway served as an excellent role model for legislators to follow – always putting others before himself,” said SU’s President. “That is the essence of public service.
“Your unwavering support of Salisbury University has made this institution what it is today,” she told Conway. “We are forever indebted to you for your leadership, your wisdom, your character, your integrity and your diligence in not only providing for our students, but also in advocating for facilities and financial support for future scholars.
“You have truly made our community, region and state a better place to live, work and raise families. I am confident that generations of Marylanders will benefit from the fruits of your labors ….
“… We are so proud to call you an alumnus of Salisbury University.”
For more information call 410-543-6030 or visit the SU website at www.salisbury.edu.
