Dr. Nancy Alexis-Calixte
MS, DPM, MD, FACFAS, FABPM.
Dr. Nancy Alexis Calixte’s story is a tapestry of achievement, resilience, and dedication. A Haitian-American physician-scientist, she has blazed trails in medicine and research, reaching the highest levels of her field while remaining deeply connected to her roots and committed to helping underserved communities. As the CEO of Miramar Podiatry and Surgery, a prominent foot and ankle surgical practice, and Calixte Medical Center, a multi-specialty clinic, she has made her mark as a leader and innovator in healthcare. But beyond her clinical expertise, Dr. Calixte’s life is woven with passions for travel, music, and community service—making her a true Renaissance woman in every sense.
A Lifetime of Learning and Leading
Dr. Calixte’s journey began with a love for knowledge and a gift for learning. From a young age in Haiti, she excelled in academics, sports, and the arts, and was a constant top student. Even as a child, her dream was clear: she wanted to become a doctor and help find cures for diseases. This ambition, paired with her talent for analytical thinking, was the foundation for an impressive academic and professional journey.
Her education in chemistry and mathematics at Barry University in Miami paved the way for a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences and later a Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine. She trained as a podiatric surgeon and honed her skills in foot and ankle surgery as a chief resident in Alabama, ultimately becoming board-certified in both podiatric surgery and podiatric medicine. Over time, her private practice in Miramar, Florida, became a Limb Salvage Institute, where she saves limbs and restores mobility for patients facing conditions like diabetes and severe injury—particularly meaningful work inspired by seeing veterans and her own family members battle these challenges.
Alongside her surgical career, Dr. Calixte has worked as a senior research scientist in the pharmaceutical industry, developing crucial immunoassays still used today in hospitals. Her work at Baxter Healthcare from 1987 to 2000 contributed to diagnostic advancements in cardiology, oncology, and reproductive health—fields where early and accurate diagnosis saves lives. Her dedication to research extended beyond industry, as she also worked with Biscayne Clinical Research and pursued advanced clinical research training at Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Calixte’s journey began with a love for knowledge and a gift for learning. From a young age in Haiti, she excelled in academics, sports, and the arts, and was a constant top student. Even as a child, her dream was clear: she wanted to become a doctor and help find cures for diseases. This ambition, paired with her talent for analytical thinking, was the foundation for an impressive academic and professional journey.
Her education in chemistry and mathematics at Barry University in Miami paved the way for a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences and later a Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine. She trained as a podiatric surgeon and honed her skills in foot and ankle surgery as a chief resident in Alabama, ultimately becoming board-certified in both podiatric surgery and podiatric medicine. Over time, her private practice in Miramar, Florida, became a Limb Salvage Institute, where she saves limbs and restores mobility for patients facing conditions like diabetes and severe injury—particularly meaningful work inspired by seeing veterans and her own family members battle these challenges.
Alongside her surgical career, Dr. Calixte has worked as a senior research scientist in the pharmaceutical industry, developing crucial immunoassays still used today in hospitals. Her work at Baxter Healthcare from 1987 to 2000 contributed to diagnostic advancements in cardiology, oncology, and reproductive health—fields where early and accurate diagnosis saves lives. Her dedication to research extended beyond industry, as she also worked with Biscayne Clinical Research and pursued advanced clinical research training at Harvard Medical School.
Giving Back Through Medicine and Mission
While Dr. Calixte has carved a successful career in the U.S., she has never forgotten her homeland or her calling to serve the most vulnerable. She has traveled to Haiti on numerous medical missions, performing complex surgeries and sharing her expertise with local healthcare providers. She also holds leadership positions with Partners in Health (PIH), an organization focused on providing healthcare to impoverished communities worldwide, including building hospitals and clinics in Haiti, Africa, and South America. Her work with PIH underscores her commitment to the global community, embodying the values of access to healthcare and human dignity.
Missionary Calixte
Dr. Calixte a young boy's hair
Medical Mission
Medical mission to St. Marc, Haiti, post earthquake.
Music, Mentorship, and Family
Despite her demanding career, Dr. Calixte’s life extends far beyond the operating room and lab. An avid traveler, she has visited over 25 countries across Europe, Africa, South Asia, and the Americas, cultivating a rich understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. This love for exploration fuels her empathy and adds a unique depth to her interactions with patients and colleagues alike.
Dr. Calixte is also a celebrated musician, with three albums to her name. As a soloist and international recording artist, she has shared stages with esteemed artists, including Jon Secada. Her love for music has not only brought her joy but also allowed her to engage with her community in a powerful way. When she first moved to South Florida, she noticed a lack of musical and cultural opportunities for young Haitians, so she founded a youth choir, mentoring members who have gone on to lead successful lives in various fields. Her artistic endeavors even extended to a role in a Broadway musical, where she was the only Black performer cast in “Annie,” an accomplishment that speaks to her courage and determination.
Family is central to Dr. Calixte’s life. Her journey as a mother has been filled with as much dedication as her professional pursuits. Her decision to pursue an MD degree alongside her daughter Valerie at the International University of Health and Sciences in 2016 reflects her commitment to both learning and family. They studied together, supporting each other through the challenges of medical school, a testament to their strong bond and shared aspirations.
Looking Ahead: Unchecked Boxes, New Frontiers
Dr. Calixte’s life is marked by significant achievements, yet she remains driven by a desire to learn, grow, and serve. While she has touched many lives and received numerous awards, she approaches the future with humility, aware that some personal and professional goals remain unmet. The boxes left unchecked are not limitations but rather invitations to pursue new paths and further impact the world around her.
A member of Doctors Without Borders and active in numerous medical boards, Dr. Calixte continues to contribute to advancing healthcare in underserved communities. Her roles within the Association of Haitian Physicians and other medical organizations reflect her dedication to empowering her community through accessible healthcare, education, and mentorship.
In a life filled with diverse achievements—from scientific breakthroughs to artistic performances, from clinical milestones to community service—Dr. Nancy Alexis Calixte embodies a spirit of resilience, compassion, and excellence. She is an inspiration to those who cross her path and serves as a reminder that, with faith and hard work, no dream is out of reach.
(Click to download the magazine in PDF).