The Academy was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Tom Stautzenbach, former Executive Director and CEO, on September 15, 2025 at sunrise in his home in Hendersonville, North Carolina, five weeks after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.
The influence of a leader is measured not by their persona at the front of the room, but in the enduring strength of the institution they leave behind. For two decades, Tom devoted his professional career to AAPM&R and to the specialty of PM&R with a profound and unassuming sense of duty that inspired countless physician leaders, volunteers, colleagues, and team members.
Tom’s tenure as Executive Director and CEO of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation from 2005 – 2024 was marked by a sense of purpose that aligned with the Academy’s mission. At moments when the path forward was uncertain, he brought vision. When challenges threatened to distract from the core purpose, he restored focus. Our society and our field are better for this.
Tom led with integrity and vision, thoughtfully supporting PM&R and the Academy to thrive. He had a way of listening to all the voices in the room, stepping back, and summarizing with a wise question to lead toward unique solutions. His vast knowledge of physiatry’s immense value to healthcare guided the development of the Academy’s vision for the specialty along with implementation of strategic plans that elevated awareness of PM&R among key stakeholders throughout the country. He intentionally and mindfully strengthened governance partnerships, Board of Governors cohesion, volunteer relationships and staff development necessary to advance the specialty and the Academy forward.
Tom encouraged others to find their passion and go beyond what they thought possible for themselves. His legacy will live on through his mentorship and the impact he made in developing other leaders. He was a colleague, mentor, coach, and friend to so many in our specialty. The Board of Governors, volunteer leaders, Academy staff and 10,000+ physiatrist members will forever be indebted to Tom for tirelessly championing PM&R.
After receiving a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1987 and a Master of Business Administration and Master of Hospital and Health Administration in 1989, all from the University of Iowa, Tom dedicated his entire career to healthcare, first in hospital management and consulting and then leading professional societies. While working at AAPM&R, he helped lead organizations across the house of medicine such as volunteering on the Board of Directors for the Council of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS).
Outside of his career, he was a dedicated member of his community. He volunteered at JOURNEYS' PADS shelter program and served on the Board of Trustees of the Interfaith House (The Boulevard) and the Board of Trustees of First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights. Beyond that, he spent time enjoying his favorite things in life; spending time with his wife and children, hiking with their dogs, traveling to national parks, music, craft beer and more.
We extend our deepest condolences to his wife Jody Stautzenbach, son Carter Briggs Sharp (Ashley), daughter Mattie Jane Stautzenbach (betrothed to Jonah Gonczy), and all of his family, loved ones, friends and colleagues who were touched by his life.
Tom leaves a lasting legacy in the field, in the Academy, and in our personal lives. His memory will be honored by the Academy at the upcoming Annual Assembly in Salt Lake City.
Published in the October/November issue of The Physiatrist