Donald Tynes, M.D.

Donald Tynes, M.D., Class of 1995, is the co-founder of the Wayne State University School of Medicine’s annual Reach Out to Youth program, which introduces young students from urban areas to the potential of careers in medicine and science. A clinical assistant professor for the School of Medicine, he is an historian, educator, lecturer and author of “For the Black Men and Women of Tomorrow.”

Dr. Tynes specializes in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, with special interests in diabetes, hypertension, asthma, sexual dysfunction and peripheral arterial disease. He practices at the Benton Harbor, Mich., Health Center as the chief medical officer, and is the Public Health director and chief medical officer for the city of Benton Harbor, as well as the team physician for the Benton Harbor Schools system. He was appointed by the governor of Michigan to the state Board of Medicine.

He has numerous awards, including the WSU School of Medicine Distinguished Alumni Award, Outstanding Service Award from the Black Medical Association: Reach Out To Youth, Detroit City Council Award of Recognition, the Spirit of Detroit Award, a Michigan House of Representatives Special Tribute: A Committed Warrior, and a Certificate of Tribute from Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Crain’s Detroit Business recognized him as a Health Care Hero in 2012.

In 2015, he was presented the Benton Harbor Men of Honor Award and Health Michigan Award of Excellence in Patient Care. In 2016, Dr. Tynes was recognized as a community hero at the second annual Community Champions Awards presented by Molina Healthcare in Grand Rapids for his work with the Reach Out to Youth program.

Dr. Tynes is an ordained minister involved in several community activities, including Project New Hope National and International Relief Program, Future Doctors - Future Leaders, Christ in the Mix, Kick the Peace Stop the Nonsense Crush the Violence Anti-Riot Program, Mobile Youth Gospel Concert Program, College Bound Program, Future Leaders Basketball Program and the Keep It Real Ministry Drill Team, Benton Harbor Children and Young Adult Community Gardens Program. He is the co-director of the Benton Harbor Homeless Youth Shelter.

He believes strongly in his mission to increase self-esteem in African American children, youth and medical students.