Story #96: Malcolm Mitchell: From PBHA Piano Performances to Providing Lifelong Care

Dr. Malcolm Mitchell ‘57, has spent his career dedicated to the principles of service and dignity—values he first encountered during his time with PBHA. As a physician, Mitchell treated patients from all walks of life, integrating innovative cancer treatments from his own laboratory into his clinical practice. From playing piano at old age homes and veterans' lodges as a PBHAer to providing care to both the privileged and the disadvantaged throughout his medical career, Dr. Mitchell embodied the spirit of service. In PBHA’s 2023 Alumni Survey, Mitchell shared this reflection:

“PBH allowed me to see life beyond the Yard and realize that much of importance goes on there,” - Malcom Mitchell, on a perspective that shaped his approach to medicine and community service.

Throughout his career, Mitchell treated a diverse range of patients, from celebrities to those from underprivileged backgrounds, always striving to offer compassionate care without judgment. His time at PBHA played a key role in developing this inclusive approach, as it broadened his understanding of the Boston area and its diverse communities. As he reflects:

“What I valued most was learning about the greater Boston area and its various support groups, such as old age and veterans' facilities,  and experiencing the warm receptions that I found everywhere. I now appreciate what people of very different educational and socio-economic backgrounds can offer. I did a residency in Medicine at Boston City Hospital, where service to underprivileged people was my entire occupation, and as a physician in academic Medicine I treated a broad swath of people, all the same as much as I could. It was definitely a two-way street.” - Malcom Mitchell, emphasizing the value of humility and respect in his medical practice.

PBHA helped Mitchell develop a broader perspective beyond the gates of the College, allowing him to connect with individuals across social and economic divides, and shaping his lifelong commitment to treating every patient with dignity. PBHA is so proud of the values that Dr. Malcolm Mitchell carries in his work with patients.