Michael E. Stadler, MD, will serve as AHW’s next executive director, beginning on Nov. 1, 2026.
Dr. Stadler currently serves as Associate Professor in MCW’s Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, and as Champion for AHW’s Health Workforce Well-Being Landmark Initiative. Dr. Stadler will report to Medical College of Wisconsin President and CEO Shekar N. Kurpad, MD, PhD.
From 2019 to 2024, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Stadler demonstrated an extraordinary combination of leadership, fortitude, and humanity in his role as chief medical officer of Froedtert Hospital. He holds staff privileges at both Froedtert and the Zablocki Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Milwaukee.
Dr. Stadler emerged as the top candidate from an impressive slate of candidates during the national search for AHW’s next leader.
Dr. Stadler will oversee the implementation of AHW’s strategic plan and chart the endowment’s future direction in fulfillment of its mission of serving as a catalyst for positive change in the health of Wisconsin communities. In accordance with the Order of the Wisconsin Office of the Insurance Commissioner (which established the endowment) and with input from statewide partners and stakeholders including the MCW Consortium on Public and Community Health, the AHW Research and Education Advisory Committee, and the MCW Board of Trustees, Dr. Stadler will lead AHW’s continuous improvement efforts and its evolution to meet new challenges that affect the health and well-being of Wisconsinites.
Dr. Stadler received his MD from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in 2006. He completed a residency in otolaryngology – head and neck surgery at the University of North Carolina Health System (2006-2011) and a fellowship in head and neck surgical oncology and microvascular reconstruction at Washington University/Barnes Jewish Hospital (2011-2012).
Dr. Stadler has been recognized for his clinical excellence, teaching, and leadership in patient safety and quality improvement. He has received numerous awards and has contributed extensively to research, education, and national professional organizations in otolaryngology. Dr. Stadler is a member of the Wisconsin Medical Society; American Head and Neck Society; Society of University Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck Surgeons; American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery; American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society; and Alpha Omega Alpha. Additionally, Dr. Stadler holds fellowship status with the American College of Surgeons.
Dr. Stadler’s leadership record is grounded in accountability and measurable results. He is committed to carrying forward AHW’s strong legacy of responsible stewardship of the funds entrusted to it – ensuring that its investments continue to create enduring impact.
Dr. Stadler resides in Mequon with his wife, Neda Esmaili, MD, MCW Associate Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, and two sons Ethan (12) and Kian (11). Dr. Stadler is an elected member of the Mequon-Thiensville School District Board of Education and enjoys spending time with family, all things outdoors, watching his kids play sports, traveling, and cooking.