I’m Mitchell Pitts, an MBA candidate at Boston University Questrom School of Business and a former U.S. Marine. My journey has been anything but traditional—I went from serving in the military and working in satellite communications to securing U.S. embassies abroad and now transitioning into the world of business. My passion lies at the intersection of global development, infrastructure, and strategic leadership, all driven by a desire to create meaningful impact.
During my time in South Sudan, I saw firsthand the effects of humanitarian crises, which reshaped my perspective on leadership and service. It wasn’t just about security—it was about finding ways to contribute, like organizing fundraisers for local orphanages and improving logistical systems to make operations more effective. In Vienna, I focused on modernizing security protocols, and in Bangkok, I managed financial operations while mentoring a team of Marines. Each experience reinforced my belief that leadership isn’t just about authority—it’s about adaptability, collaboration, and making decisions that improve people’s lives.
Now, at Questrom, I’m focused on applying these experiences to a future in infrastructure and global development, working alongside engineers and policymakers to build sustainable projects that enhance communities worldwide. I thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments and am always looking for opportunities to bring strategy and execution together to drive real change.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that I met Mitch through Remi, who befriended Baron—a large, regal dog I immediately nicknamed "The Aristocrat." His humans, Jeff and Elizabeth, became friendly with me, and I soon learned that Jeff often provided housing for people passing through the neighborhood. The first guest was a remarkable Iranian artist, who is now an MBA student at BU’s Questrom School of Business. As it turns out, we have much in common, including an unusual, non-traditional childhood. He grew up in many states and spent the last three and a half years living in South Sudan, Vienna, and Bangkok.
Our conversations have covered a wide range of topics, from Marine Corps concerns to the ideation of creating a new university. I am continually struck by his intellectual curiosity and career aspirations, which align closely with the core mission of the Institute of Global Leadership, spanning foreign service and humanitarian issues. Remarkably, he lives just 150 steps away from me—a serendipitous proximity that has fostered a relationship marked by productivity and stimulating discussions, ranging from sports to Wernher von Braun. His name is omnipresent in Huntsville, Alabama, including the mansion-turned-museum atop Monte Sano Mountain.
I enjoy learning from Mitch, and our occasional differences in opinion only serve to sharpen our thinking. His experiences are meaningful and diverse. As I write this, we are about to depart for Bangkok. He has already taken the initiative to redesign a website through a friend's connection, just one example of his resourcefulness. When I use the word "productive," I do so with full appreciation of the balance between meaningful work and the engaging conversations we have while collaborating.
