Announcing the 2025 Hall of Distinction Inductees

The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Foundation (AAO-HNS/F) is pleased to announce the selection of the fifth class of inductees into the AAO-HNS Hall of Distinction. A special thank you to the Awards Committee, chaired by Albert L. Merati, MD, which selected three individuals for the “Pioneers” category and six individuals for the “Living Legends” category. 

President Troy D. Woodard, MD, will honor this outstanding class of inductees in a special presentation at the AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO during the Opening Ceremony, 8:00 – 9:00 am (ET), Saturday, October 11, in Indianapolis, Indiana. 

Pioneers 

William F. House, MDWilliam F. House, MD, was a groundbreaking innovator whose contributions to otolaryngology earned him recognition as the "Father of Neurotology." Dr. House revolutionized the treatment of deafness through his development of the cochlear implant, persevering despite significant resistance from established medicine, who declared his work impossible. His cochlear implant became the first FDA-approved medical device to restore a human sense in 1984. His persistence ultimately enabled millions of deaf children and adults worldwide to hear. Beyond cochlear implants, Dr. House introduced the operating microscope to neurosurgery, developed innovative surgical approaches for acoustic tumor removal, and established numerous microsurgical ear procedures. With degrees from UC Berkeley and University of Southern California, he received the prestigious Physician of the Year award in 1985. Dr. House's legacy continues through the House Institute Foundation, where his dedication to making hearing restoration accessible globally, particularly in developing countries, exemplifies his lifelong commitment to patient care and medical innovation.

David R. Nielsen, MDDavid R. Nielsen, MD, was a pioneering leader whose tenure as Executive Vice President and CEO of the AAO-HNS/F (2002-2014) fundamentally reshaped the Academy and elevated the specialty. Dr. Nielsen embodied servant leadership characterized by genuine humility, kindness, and empathy, earning widespread recognition as someone who "genuinely wanted what was best for the Academy and membership." His professional legacy includes formalizing the strategic planning process that continues to guide the organization today, building the foundation of the Academy's quality and evidence-based programs, and significantly elevating otolaryngology's stature across the house of medicine. Known for his passionate advocacy on public health issues, Dr. Nielsen was instrumental in developing leadership skills in others through mentorship and training. His commitment to the next generation of otolaryngologists was legendary. The David R. Nielsen, MD Endowment, established in 2014, stands as a testament to his enduring impact on patient-centered care and quality outcomes in otolaryngology.

Harold F. Schuknecht, MDHarold F. Schuknecht, MD, was a distinguished leader whose contributions to otology established the scientific foundation for modern otologic practice. As Walter Augustus LeCompte Professor and Chair at Harvard Medical School and Chief of Otolaryngology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (1961-1987), Dr. Schuknecht revolutionized the understanding of ear pathology through meticulous correlation of clinical findings with temporal bone histopathology. His comprehensive research encompassed otosclerosis, Ménière's disease, and presbycusis, producing the first human auditory frequency map and defining subtypes of age-related hearing loss. An innovative surgeon, he was among the first in the United States to perform modern stapedectomy and pioneered transcanal labyrinthectomy for vestibular disorders. His legendary "Sunday School" otopathology sessions trained generations of otologists. Through his magnum opus, Pathology of the Ear, over 300 publications, and establishment of a 1,500-specimen temporal bone collection, Dr. Schuknecht created the scientific infrastructure that continues to guide contemporary otologic practice.

Living Legends

Ellen S. Deutsch, MD, MSEllen S. Deutsch, MD, MS, is an accomplished pediatric otolaryngologist and patient safety expert with a passion for developing engaging educational programs that enhance the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of individuals, teams, and healthcare systems. Her career has focused on implementing human factors engineering principles to strengthen healthcare systems, empowering clinicians to improve patient safety and satisfaction. Throughout her work, she has been dedicated to helping people succeed—whether patients, students, or colleagues. Dr. Deutsch most recently served as Medical Officer at the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Her distinguished career includes roles as Senior Scientist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Medical Director at ECRI Institute and the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority, and Director of Perioperative Simulation at CHOP, following 20 years as a practicing pediatric otolaryngologist at AI duPont Hospital for Children and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children. Dr. Deutsch has served as President of the American Bronchoesophagological Association and in leadership roles across multiple professional organizations.

Johannes J. Fagan, MBChB, M.Med (Otol)Johannes J. Fagan, MBChB, M.Med (Otol), who served as the first AAO-HNSF International Advisory Board Chair (2016-2018), is a distinguished leader whose extraordinary contributions to global otolaryngology have advanced healthcare access and education across Africa and low- and middle-income countries. As Leon Goldman Professor and Head of Otolaryngology at the University of Cape Town (2002-2024), Professor Fagan established groundbreaking fellowship programs in head and neck oncology, otology, rhinology, and pediatric otolaryngology, training 38 fellows who now provide care across sub-Saharan Africa. His visionary leadership led to the creation of the African Head and Neck Society, the Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat Society in Africa (PENTAfrica), and African Otological Society. Committed to addressing global healthcare inequality, ethical practice, and social justice in medicine, Professor Fagan authored the acclaimed Open Access Atlas of Otolaryngology. His recognition includes the International Federation of ORL Societies Gold Medal, AAO-HNSF International Public Service Award, and University of Cape Town Fellowship. Through innovative education, mentorship, and advocacy, Dr. Fagan has created sustainable healthcare infrastructure that continues to save lives across Africa.

Sonya Malekzadeh, MDSonya Malekzadeh, MD, is a distinguished leader whose innovative contributions to medical education and simulation have transformed otolaryngology training. As Professor and Vice Chair for Education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, Dr. Malekzadeh pioneered groundbreaking educational tools including COCLIA, used by residency programs globally. Her creation of low-cost surgical simulators revolutionized resident skill acquisition, while her co-development of the ORL Emergencies Boot Camp enhanced emergency preparedness training. Dr. Malekzadeh's exceptional leadership includes serving as the AAO-HNSF Coordinator for Education (2011-2015), past Chair of the Otolaryngology Program Directors Organization, and past-President of the Society of University Otolaryngologists. As inaugural Chair of the AAO-HNS Women in Otolaryngology Section, she championed diversity and inclusion within the specialty. Currently serving as Director of the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, member of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Residency Review Committee, and leader of the AAO-HNSF Otolaryngology Core Curriculum program, Dr. Malekzadeh continues shaping the future of otolaryngologic education through her unwavering commitment to training excellence.

Brian Nussenbaum, MD, MHCMBrian Nussenbaum, MD, MHCM, is a dedicated leader whose exceptional contributions to medical education, patient safety, and specialty governance have advanced otolaryngology nationwide. As Executive Director of the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery since 2018, Dr. Nussenbaum oversees certification standards ensuring quality care across the specialty. His distinguished academic career at Washington University School of Medicine included roles as Vice Chair for Clinical Affairs, Division Chief of Head and Neck Surgery, and Fellowship Director. Dr. Nussenbaum's commitment to patient safety and quality improvement initiatives has elevated standards throughout the specialty. His national leadership includes serving as co-chair of the National Cancer Institute/National Institutes of Health (NCI/NIH) Head and Neck Steering Committee Task Force, Secretary-Treasurer of the Society of University Otolaryngologists, and current board member of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Dr. Nussenbaum exemplifies the integration of clinical excellence, educational leadership, and organizational stewardship.

Michael Setzen, MDMichael Setzen, MD, is an influential leader whose exceptional contributions to rhinology and otolaryngology have shaped modern practice and policy. As Clinical Professor at Weill Cornell Medical College and Past President of the American Rhinologic Society (2011-2012), Dr. Setzen has advanced the specialty through innovative surgical techniques and advocacy. His distinguished service as past Chair of the AAO-HNS Board of Governors (2000-2001) and Coordinator for Practice Affairs (2008-2013) demonstrated his commitment to physician advocacy and healthcare policy. Dr. Setzen has authored 195 publications, including over 100 peer-reviewed articles, and delivered 450 scientific lectures worldwide. His expertise in endoscopic sinus surgery, rhinoplasty, and in-office procedures has enhanced patient care. Multiple prestigious awards including the AAO-HNS Distinguished Service Award (2010, 2023) and Practitioner of Excellence Award (2013) recognize his outstanding contributions. Through his editorial roles, teaching, and mentorship, Dr. Setzen has elevated standards in rhinologic care while championing physician interests and advancing the specialty's legislative agenda.

Mark K. Wax, MDMark K. Wax, MD, is an exceptional leader whose innovative contributions to head and neck reconstructive surgery have advanced patient care and surgical education worldwide. As Professor and Residency Program Director at Oregon Health & Science University, Dr. Wax established a pioneering fellowship program in advanced reconstructive surgery. His groundbreaking work in microvascular reconstruction following major oncologic ablation has maximized rehabilitation outcomes for countless patients. With over 250 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Wax has expanded the applications of free tissue transfer and improved dental rehabilitation through innovative collaborations. His dedication to professional leadership includes serving as President of the American Head and Neck Society, AAO-HNSF Coordinator for Education and Coordinator of the Annual Meeting Program Committee (2016-2020), and President of the Otolaryngology Program Directors Organization. Dr. Wax's commitment to excellence in surgical education, combined with his clinical innovations in complex reconstruction, has created a lasting legacy that continues to benefit patients and trainees across the specialty. His mentorship has shaped the next generation of reconstructive surgeons worldwide.