For those less familiar with MIT EMS, it’s an entirely volunteer service that performs the same functions as the other paid ambulances in the area. However, most of its members are also MIT students who dedicate their often limited time to serving the members of our community.

Michael is no exception. While devoting his days to his graduate work in Course 2N (Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering) and his nights and weekends to staffing the MIT ambulance and community events, he also serves as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy. Michael is a graduate of the US Naval Academy, a qualified Surface Warfare Officer and Dive Officer, and a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technician.

Under his leadership, MIT’s emergency medical services enhanced significantly on multiple fronts: closer working relationship with the Cambridge Fire Department, Boston EMS, and Professional Ambulance, leading to better coordination in emergency response; improvement of incident report tracking and resolution, leading to efficient maintenance actions and mission readiness; improvement of external training opportunities, leading to a cadre of more experienced providers. As one outcome of this work, MIT EMS now host joint outreach events such as a frequent event between Professional Ambulance Service, MIT EMS, and Save a Life, Save a Heart (SALSAH), another community organization which Michael is actively involved in, to teach free, hands-only CPR to the community.

Additionally, thanks in part to Michael’s efforts on the MIT EMS Executive Committee, MIT EMS members now attend training events with these other organizations, and our members now ride along with crews at Cambridge fire to meet and learn from each other.

Sgt. Turco of the MIT Police wrote: “When I first became the community policing sergeant, I kept receiving emails from some kid named Michael. He was really interested in making sure the relationship between the MIT Police and MIT EMS remained strong. And he was determined to maintain and strengthen this relationship. In the fall of 2015 we had our first MIT Police/EMS barbecue in the parking lot of the police station. Michael even spent time at homemaking a cornhole set that depicted the badges of the MIT Police and MIT EMS. The barbecue is now an annual event and the cornhole boards come out whenever possible. Michael Beautyman has been a wonderful asset to the MIT Community and, as a police officer, it is an honor to know someone so genuine, kind, and committed to service. Let’s give him crisp salute on all his efforts across the MIT and Greater Boston community."