Some people are known by their job title. Others are known by the impact they have on a community.
In Hemlock, Mitchell Pitt is simply known as... Mitchell.
Born and raised in Hemlock, Mitchell joined Hemlock Public School District in fourth grade after attending Saginaw Intermediate School District programs for students with autism. From the moment he arrived, something special happened. A group of classmates took him under their wing, friendships formed naturally, and those relationships have lasted a lifetime.
His mother, Anna, says that's what has always made Hemlock different.
"The people are what make Hemlock special. Being accepted is hard for any child, but for children with special needs, it can be even harder. From the first day Mitchell walked into Hemlock Schools, it was obvious he was home."
Sports quickly became Mitchell's language. While autism kept him from playing competitively himself, it never kept him from becoming one of Huskie Athletics' biggest champions. He managed teams, helped coaches and trainers, kept statistics, directed the pep band on occasion, and became a constant presence on the sidelines—always encouraging, always smiling, and always cheering on his friends.
Long before graduation, Mitchell found another calling: running the scoreboard and game clock.
Since 2011, he has faithfully worked nearly every home football, volleyball, basketball, and baseball game, often covering both middle school and varsity contests whenever schedules allow. His commitment is so well known that his work schedule at The Maple Grille—where he has been employed since graduating from Hemlock High School in 2012 and the Saginaw Transition Center—is built around Huskie Athletics. The Maple Grille family has always understood that, for Mitchell, serving Hemlock comes first.
His dedication hasn't gone unnoticed.
In 2026, the Hemlock Sports Boosters named Mitchell their Volunteer of the Year, recognizing more than a decade of behind-the-scenes service to Huskie Athletics. Coaches praise his precision and reliability, officials are relieved to learn he's running the clock, and everyone knows that when Mitchell is at the scoreboard, the game is in good hands.
One of Mitchell's favorite memories came during his senior year, when his classmates elected him Hemlock High School's 2011 Homecoming King.
When his name was announced, the gym erupted in cheers. Later that evening, in true Mitchell fashion, he grabbed the crown and placed it on his own head before anyone else could, drawing laughter and applause from the packed stadium. It wasn't just a funny moment—it was a reflection of a school community that had spent years reminding him that he belonged.
As one classmate simply said, "He's one of us."
Today, Mitchell's room remains a tribute to the school he loves. His homecoming crown, signed footballs and basketballs, state championship memorabilia, and countless Huskie keepsakes tell the story of someone whose heart has always been wrapped in blue and white.
His parents, Brian (Class of 1978) and Anna, couldn't be more grateful.
"We are so proud of Mitch and of our whole community for allowing him to grow into the happy man he is. Thank you to everyone who believed in him and gave him the opportunity to show what he could do."
Anna hopes Mitchell's story reminds people of something bigger.
"Everyone has gifts, and everyone has a place in our society. Sometimes you just have to help them find it."
Mitchell found his place.
It was right here in Hemlock.
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