Big check

The New Hampshire Humane Society received a $600,000 check from the trust of Richard H. Coggon on Wednesday. Richard's niece Debbie Coggon, at left holding check, and the family's lawyer, Scott McGuffin, at right holding check, presented the gift to the Humane Society's director, Charles Stanton, center. (Jon Decker/The Laconia Daily Sun photo)

LACONIA — The New Hampshire Humane Society received a donation of $600,000 Wednesday from the estate of Richard H. Coggon II. Coggon died in 2021, leaving behind a legacy as an educator and advocate. Humane Society Director Charles Stanton wrote in a press release that Coggon was a “generous supporter of New Hampshire Humane Society and was known to have a deep and sincere love for all animals.”

On Wednesday afternoon, Coggon’s niece Debbie and estate trustee Scott McGuffin came to the shelter to present the check in person to staff and board members.

Coggon taught social studies at Laconia High School, and was also president of the Laconia Education Association for a time during his career. 

“My career was also in education and I have been dedicated to animal welfare all my life,” said Deb McNeish, New Hampshire Humane board president. “We are doing important work and this support allows us to save even more animals that need us.”

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