Linda Matchan’s article “Writing his way to the top,” about Obama administration speechwriter Joe Resnek, caught my attention (Page A1, June 17). I, too, grew up in Chelsea and attended Harvard. I was valedictorian of my Chelsea High School graduating class of 1976, and graduated from Harvard-Radcliffe in 1980, and Harvard Law School in 1983. I, therefore, began reading this article with eager anticipation, but was disappointed.
I believe the article does an extreme disservice to both Chelsea and many of its residents who have achieved a great deal. While praising the accomplishments of this intelligent, articulate, and ambitious young man, the article implies that Resnek’s accomplishments are unique and that those from Chelsea are incapable of such accomplishments.
I beg to differ. Over the years, countless students from Chelsea have attended Harvard and other such esteemed institutions. I am happy to congratulate Resnek on his achievements, but he is not the first person from Chelsea to achieve this much, nor will he be the last.