James Still

James Thomas Still (July 12, 1840 - June 22, 1895) was a surgeon and writer in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1871, he graduated with honors from Harvard Medical School, the third Black graduate of the school. In 1875, he was the first Black member elected to the Boston School Board. He maintained a private medical practice in Boston, and served in the Massachusetts Volunteer Militia. In 1895, he died from kidney failure.

Early life Still was born in Medford, New Jersey to noted physician James Still and Henrietta Still. His education was in the common schools of New Jersey.

Career

After graduating from Harvard, he established a private medical practice in Boston. its first African American member.

He also served on the board of the Home for Aged Colored Women and assisted women who were former slaves and servants.

He died June 22, 1895, at his home in Boston of Bright's disease.

Legacy Since 2008, Harvard Medical School has hosted the annual “Howard, Dorsey, Still Lecture and Diversity Awards Ceremony” to honor the school’s first three Black graduates: Edwin C. J. T. Howard, Thomas Graham Dorsey, and Still.