Establishing the first independent lobbying firm in Connecticut in 1974, Carroll served as President of Hughes & Cronin for an impressive 47 years. Together with his business partner and wife, Jean Cronin, and later joined by his son Sean in 2017, Carroll transformed the firm into a renowned lobbying and association management entity. Over the past five decades, the business has represented hundreds of local and national clients before the legislature, state and municipal agencies, and many of these clients are still with the firm today.

A pioneer in the lobbying industry, Carroll was a revered figure at the Capitol, known for his professionalism, mentorship, and connection with people from all walks of life. He was a skilled testifier, who loved speaking at legislative public hearings on behalf of his clients, and a brilliant strategist, who could craft and execute a winning legislative plan despite insurmountable odds. His tireless commitment to his clients was well known, as were his early morning and weekend calls. Carroll’s expertise in research, planning, and execution for each issue and client has been instilled in Jean, Sean, and all of his staff.

Beyond the Capitol, Carroll cherished moments spent with family on Block Island’s beaches, indulging in the camaraderie of the Newport Ancient Order of the Hibernians, and reveling in his Irish heritage. An avid reader, history buff, and diehard Red Sox fan, Carroll’s interests were as diverse as the friendships he cultivated over the years.

Of the many words of wisdom Carroll shared, his approach to both life and work are reflected in his favorite Irish saying: “May you have the hindsight to know where you’ve been, the foresight to know where you are going, and the insight to know when you’ve gone too far.”