Laurie Sullivan

SULLIVAN, Laurie Laurie Sullivan, an influential Democratic legislative strategist and experienced participant in the Washington political arena, died on Wednesday (February 20, 2008). Sullivan combined legislative and political advocacy with a love of life and undying devotion to her family throughout her courageous battle with cancer. She lived by her words, "It is the quality of life, not the quantity." Sullivan was born October 2, 1951 to William and Doris Dombi in Torrington, Connecticut. She leaves her sister, Cathy Dombi, and two brothers and their spouses: Robert and Claire Dombi and William and Lynn Dombi, as well as her six loving nieces and nephews: Jason, Lindsy, Megan, Alex, Janique, and Max, and four stepsons. Laurie Sullivan's original base was Connecticut, graduating with a law degree from the University of Connecticut with highest honors in 1976. Her political roots began even earlier as a Democratic activist during high school and college. In 1972, she represented Connecticut as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention. At that time, she was the youngest delegate ever. She became a leader in the insurance industry during her tenure at Aetna through her significant involvement with a broad portfolio of state and federal legislation. After a decade spent at Aetna's corporate headquarters in Connecticut, Sullivan co-founded the Washington firm Sullivan and Baldick, later forming the highly successful Avenue Solutions, representing clients on numerous legislative issues including healthcare reform, Medicare expansion, legal reform, pension relief and telecommunications. Laurie also was an unending proponent of Democratic causes and candidates. Senate and House members, along with the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, and the Democratic National Committee all benefited from her strategic and fundraising support. Apart from her significant professional work, Sullivan devoted herself to her family. She imparted her fun-loving, generous, and independent spirit to all within her very close family, leaving a legacy that will multiply in the generations of that family to come. She is described as the bond that brought her family continually together from all corners of the globe. She prided herself in conveying the value of education to her nieces and nephews as she was the beneficiary of educational opportunities herself. With Laurie, friends, colleagues, and business associates became family as well. Sharing her love of life, politics, and the excitement of Capitol Hill with all, Laurie leaves a lasting impression on Washington. Memorial services are scheduled for Friday, February 29, 2008, commencing at 9 am. The services will be held at the Columbus Club at Union Station. Doors will open at 8:30 am. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, Laurie's family suggests donations to: WAVE at: www.waveinc.org and the Lombardi Cancer Center at the Georgetown University Medical Center (please designate the Arts & Humanities Program).