ACEP is entering a new chapter in its leadership with the selection of Michael Fraser, PhD, MS, CAE, as its next Executive Director. He assumed the role on November 1.

Michael will guide ACEP’s efforts to strengthen emergency medicine, advance the College’s strategic priorities, and support its role as the national voice of the specialty. This leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for ACEP as the organization continues to focus on advocacy, education, and policy initiatives that empower emergency physicians and enhance the practice of emergency medicine.

Michael brings more than two decades of experience leading public health and physician organizations. He most recently served as CEO of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and previously held executive roles with the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

He has authored more than 40 peer-reviewed publications and serves as affiliated faculty at George Mason University’s College of Public Health in Fairfax, Virginia.

“I’m honored to serve as ACEP’s next Executive Director,” Fraser said. “Throughout the search process, I was deeply inspired by the passion of ACEP members and the vital role emergency physicians play at the intersection of our nation’s health care and public health systems. I look forward to collaborating with leaders and members to advance the specialty and support those who care for anyone, anytime.”

His appointment follows a national search process informed by input from members across the organization. ACEP leaders prioritized selecting a candidate with strong operational experience, a collaborative leadership style, and a deep commitment to the organization’s mission and values.

“This is a pivotal moment for the specialty,” said ACEP Immediate Past President Alison Haddock, MD, FACEP. “Now is the time to confront real threats to emergency physicians’ autonomy and eliminate obstacles that complicate the unique and vital duty to treat anyone, anytime. Michael Fraser’s blend of strong public health leadership and deep association experience will position ACEP and its members for long-term success.” 

Michael will build on the work of Sandy Schneider, MD, FACEP, who has served as Interim Executive Director since 2024, guiding the organization through a period of meaningful transition.

“Michael brings extensive leadership experience and a clear dedication to our mission,” Dr. Schneider said. “I’m confident he will provide strong, thoughtful guidance, and I look forward to working with him as we enter this next chapter for the organization.”

The ACEP Board of Directors and Search Committee conducted a national search with a competitive and inclusive process to identify a leader who could build on the College’s strong foundation and guide its next chapter. Michael’s selection reflects the Board’s commitment to strategic, mission-driven leadership that keeps our members at the center of all we do. ACEP looks forward to working with Michael to strengthen the organization’s impact and support emergency physicians in their vital mission: delivering care to anyone, for anything, anytime.