RALEIGH – The North Carolina Department of Transportation, along with school and local officials, dedicated the Interstate 440 and Capital Boulevard interchange in Raleigh in honor of Conen Morgan, a respected political strategist and Garner native.
“This is a deeply humbling moment for our family. To see Conen’s name of this road is a powerful reminder of the life he lived—one of service, justice, and hope.” said Pam Morgan, his mother. “His legacy will continue to inspire, and for that, we are truly grateful.”
Morgan, a graduate of Garner Magnet High School and North Carolina State University, was known statewide for his pivotal role in helping numerous political candidates win public office. At NC State, he served as student senate president and was actively involved in leading youth political organizations across the state.
“Conen spent his life uplifting others. From encouraging students to pursue careers in STEM fields and pushing to have voices heard that have traditionally been marginalized.” said Reyna Walters-Morgan, his wife. “Conen left this world a better place.”
He was also the founder and managing partner of the Longleaf Agency, which played a key role in the groundbreaking campaigns of Black female leaders, including Vi Lyles and Elaine M. O'Neal—the first Black female mayors of Charlotte and Durham, respectively.
Morgan’s contributions earned him multiple honors, including the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the President's Volunteer Service Award, the Harry S. Truman Award for the Greatest Contribution to the Truman Community and the Dr. Jason Painter Distinguished Service Award for his dedication to science education through the North Carolina Science Olympiad.
Morgan’s name will now live on as a permanent part of Raleigh’s infrastructure, honoring his lifelong commitment to public service and community empowerment.