Don’t forget Zoellick accomplishments

In the Daily Herald of Friday, March 23, a fine article was printed noting the support of past and present Naperville Central staff and students for one of their own, embattled New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton.

Ironically, in the same edition, columnist Michael Gerson (with ties to the area having attended Wheaton College), noted the accomplishments of another Naperville Central graduate, soon-to-be-retiring president of the World Bank, Robert Zoellick, Redskin (now Redhawk) Class of 1971. He also served as U.S. Trade Representative under President George W. Bush, a cabinet-level post.

Mr. Gerson noted the positive impact of Mr. Zoellick’s leadership of the World Bank during a very tumultuous economic time. Given the nature of the story about Coach Payton, I thought readers should be aware of the career of another Central graduate. On behalf of the young people who look up to him, I thank Sean Payton for taking responsibility for what happened in the Saints’ locker room and on the field under his leadership and, therefore, modeling the importance of being accountable.

I also thank Robert Zoellick for his world wide leadership over the years and how his work is a model to students of what they can accomplish. I wish both men the very best as they and their families move on from this point in their lives.

Tom Paulsen

Redskin/Redhawk, 1982-2003

Wheaton