From Lightweight to Leader

As a Harvard classmate of Ted Kennedy, I didn't expect much from him. He was a football player who was expelled for cheating. But when I met him 20 years later in the Senate, I was very impressed by his efforts to improve the lives of Americans. He hired a brilliant staff and worked hard to master the details of policy and legislation.

When he spoke at our 50th reunion about health care, he showed full command of the subject. The youthful lightweight had become a passionate progressive leader. In his life journey, he responded to devastating family tragedy and personal failure by dedicating himself to further the common good. He will be sorely missed, especially by those of us who share his vision of health care for all Americans.

By Michael Maccoby

 |  August 27, 2009; 10:53 AM ET
Category:  Leadership personalities Save & Share:                 
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