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Avella School Board president drowns while vacationing in Florida

By Paul Paterra 2 min read
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Corey McConn

Corey McConn, president of the Avella School Board, died Friday as a result of a drowning accident while vacationing in Bradenton, Fla.

According to the school district website, the Cross Creek Township resident had served the board for 22 years.

Emanuel A. Paris IV, the board’s vice president, said the three words that come to mind when he thinks of McConn are “dedication, knowledge and humor.”

“His commitment and passion to our school and communities’ success are attributes that are very hard to find in a person these days,” Paris said. “He is, without a doubt, a major reason for the school’s continued success over the years. If you ever sat through a meeting with Corey, you know there are bound to be lots of jokes and laughs, but when it comes down to business, you better get serious.”

Neither the Bradenton Police Department nor the Manatee County Sheriff’s Department were able to provide any details about what happened to 47-year-old McConn.

Avella’s school board posted a message on the district’s website announcing McConn’s passing, calling his commitment to the district “unwavering.”

“His leadership and dedication over the years have greatly contributed to the progress and success of our schools. He was passionate about education and deeply valued our community, always striving to make a positive impact,” the message read.

McConn was a 1995 graduate of Avella High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in history and political science from Washington & Jefferson College in 1999.

He worked in marketing, planning and business development at Sunnyside Supply in Burgettstown, while also tending to the family farm in Cross Creek.

McConn also was very involved with the local American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life and enjoyed traveling to new destinations, according to his obituary. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Slater Funeral & Cremation Services of Burgettstown.

Paris said McConn will be missed both personally and professionally.

“Corey’s knowledge of school policies, education, etc., will be greatly missed by the school board, but Corey McConn will be greatly missed as a person by our entire community,” Paris said.

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