Howard University Hospital names Roger Mitchell Jr. its new president

WASHINGTON — Adventist HealthCare and Howard University have announced a new president of the Howard University Hospital. 

Roger Mitchell Jr. will serve as the next president, as part of a Management Service Agreement as the two organizations continue discussions for a long-term partnership. Dr. Mitchell will assume the role once current president, Anita Jenkins, steps down on Sept. 13. 

Currently, Dr. Mitchell serves as the Chief Medical Officer for the Howard University Faculty Practice Plan. He also holds a tenure position as Professor of Pathology at the Howard University College of Medicine. Dr. Mitchell will step down from both roles before assuming his new position as president at the hospital.

Dr. Mitchell is not just known on Howard University's campus, he has been a pillar of the community for years. He serves as the University's Director for the Center of Excellence for Trauma and Violence Prevention and has led many outreach programs to decrease gun violence across the District. 

“Dr. Mitchell is uniquely qualified to lead Howard University Hospital, bringing decades of strong leadership experience and insight from regional, national and international healthcare roles,” said John Sackett, President and CEO of Adventist HealthCare. “Dr. Mitchell will provide the guidance needed to provide high-quality care for the D.C. community, attract the best physicians in the nation to support comprehensive healing and ensure a superior learning environment for medical students and residents.” 

Prior to his services at Howard University, Dr. Mitchell worked as the Chief Medical Examiner for the District of Columbia for several years. He was also Interim Deputy Mayor for Public Safety & Justice, while working closely with emergency healthcare services during the height of the pandemic. 

“Dr. Mitchell’s extensive medical and public health experience, as well as his understanding of the needs of the D.C. community, will inform his leadership so that Howard University Hospital continues to advance initiatives to support the best health outcomes,” said Howard University President Ben Vinson III. “His deep connections to Howard University as an alumnus, professor and executive leader will inform how our students can best participate in ground-breaking clinical and research work with significant influence and impact.”