Peter Brown ’65

“I credit many of my outcomes in life to Pennington,” says Peter Brown ’65. And if you want a perfect snapshot of alumni loyalty and generosity, you need look no further. As a Francis Harvey Green Society member, loyal annual donor, and active volunteer, his commitment over the past 50 years is a moving display of deep gratitude for a transformational Pennington experience. For Brown, it was an experience that prepared him for a distinguished career as a health care executive and hospital CEO—including being the youngest CEO at that time in the state of Massachusetts.

And his retirement in 1995 didn’t slow him down. Brown lives with his wife, Melissa (Missie), along with their three Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in Cape Cod, Massachusetts—a place where he has deep family history and ties. It is also where he and Missie manage their successful real estate ventures, serve as active volunteers for numerous organizations, and spend time with family and grandchildren.

When Peter Brown first came to Pennington, he knew that a nurturing environment was critical in order for him to achieve his college and career aspirations. “I remember my junior year English teacher, Jonathan Rice, made us write a paper each week. I had never done anything like that. The writing skills and confidence I got from that assignment translated directly into success in my career.”

Like the majority of students in the 1960s, Brown was a boarder, and he served as a proctor and then as head proctor, which helped him develop tangible leadership skills. He adds, “The boarding experience really gave me a leg up in college. I already knew how to be independent and manage my time.”

Brown’s involvement as an alumnus started when he became a class agent volunteer during his very first reunion, a role in which he has been active ever since. He is equally steadfast in his giving as a loyal annual fund donor. About 25 years ago Peter and Missie decided to become members of the Francis Harvey Green Society, Pennington’s legacy society, when they made a bequest intention and included Pennington in their estate plan.

Peter says, “We feel strongly about supporting education. Our planned gift is another way to show gratitude and pay it forward. I often say that planned gifts are the most ‘painless’ way to support the causes you care about. Many of us wish we could give more now, but our current priorities limit us. But when you are no longer here, it’s really easy to do!” Although Missie is not a Pennington graduate, she and Peter were high school sweethearts—and Pennington has a special place in her heart as well.

With his long volunteer tenure, Brown has also had a front-row seat at the School’s evolution. “Whenever I open the latest magazine, I am just amazed by all the activities students are involved with today.” He praises the leadership of Dr. Hawkey and Board Chair Peter Tucci ’79 P’16 ’16 for this tremendous growth. He also credits his fellow alumni. “In large part, the progress Pennington has made in facilities and programs has been made possible because of alumni giving. To see people on the donor lists from the 1940s and 1950s, all the way through to today’s graduates, is inspiring.”

Brown has also been a great source of inspiration to others—his dedication to the School, tireless service, and generosity have motivated many classmates and alumni across the generations to give back and get involved. We are so grateful for all he has done and continues to do for Pennington.