I am a full-time faculty member in the IT graduate department at SBIT where I am the lead over several courses, serve on several committees, and currently a part of the Chair Academy. I bring a diverse background in emergency medical services (EMS), education, public health, occupational health and safety, data analytics, and leadership. My passion for education and research has allowed me to support students, faculty, and industry professionals in their academic and career growth.

Academic Credentials

Capella University

• Doctor of Health Administration (DHA/QA), Health Care Quality and Analytics

University of Phoenix

• Master of Health Administration (MHA/ED), Education

• Bachelor of Science in Health Administration (BSHA/HM), Health Management

• Associate of Arts

Dekalb Technical College

• Emergency Medical Technician-Intermediate

Certifications

• EMT-I

• CompTIA Data+

• Lean Six Sigma Red Belt in Safety (LSSRBS)

• Business Continuity Certified (BCC)

• National Certified Investigator Basic and Specialized

• OSHA 30

Professional Expertise

With over a decade of experience in occupational health, I have successfully managed multiple occupational clinics, significantly improved workplace safety, and reduced injury rates by 50%. My leadership in data analytics has enhanced data collection and compliance by 25% at the state level, while my strategic initiatives have led to an 80% reduction in open investigations within six months. Additionally, I have overseen federally funded grants, ensuring all deliverables were met effectively. My expertise allows me to bridge the gap between education and real-world application, benefiting students, colleagues, and stakeholders alike.

Teaching Philosophy

Higher education is an evolving landscape that requires educators to be adaptable, innovative, and student-centered. My teaching philosophy is rooted in fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment that accommodates diverse learning styles.

My journey as an educator began in EMS, where I trained new EMT students and educated the public on healthcare best practices. Over the past 15 years, I have taught CPR to children, healthcare providers, and community members. As my career progressed, I transitioned into leadership roles, training new employees, developing educational materials, and providing constructive feedback. These experiences have shaped my approach to teaching, ensuring that every student, whether in traditional or online learning environments, receives the support and engagement they need to succeed.

As a servant leader, I am committed to professionalism, respect, and objectivity. I create a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and engaging in discussions. Effective communication is essential to student success, and I strive to provide timely feedback, returning graded assignments within 24 hours whenever possible. Staying informed and current with best practices ensures that my students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for their future careers.

Personal Background

Born and raised in Georgia, I continue to reside there with my husband and two children—a 19-year-old daughter and a 17-year-old son. My passion for education extends beyond the classroom, as I frequently volunteer in my community. I teach CPR and babysitting skills to children on weekends and volunteer twice a year at a local high school, providing CPR, First Aid, and AED training to early childhood education students. Additionally, I serve as a chair and panel member on several federal grant committees.

My personal experiences have deeply influenced my career path. After losing my mother at 18, I pursued EMS as a way to make a difference. In my first five years, I transported both of my grandparents, who later passed away from cancer. After a decade in EMS, a major injury shifted my path, leading me to pursue a doctoral degree. Coming from a modest background, I was determined to turn challenges into opportunities. My passion for data, research, and education drives me to give back to my students, guiding them through their academic and professional journeys.

Michael Stutler is an adjunct professor in the School of Business & IT at Purdue University Global, where he has been teaching for the past 2.5 years. With a rich background in hospitality and business, Michael brings a wealth of experience to his students. He has worked for the Walt Disney World Resort since 1995, where he developed a deep passion for Walt Disney’s vision and the Disney brand. His extensive experience in hospitality operations, along with expertise in market research, human resources, and training, has laid the foundation for his career in education. At Purdue University Global, Michael teaches TH213 Food and Beverage Management and TH230 Foundations of Conference and Event Planning, sharing his knowledge and real-world expertise with the next generation of business professionals.

Michael holds both an MBA and an MA in International Business from Webster University. He teaches courses in food and beverage management and conference and event planning, where he aims to engage students through storytelling and real-world examples. His teaching style is interactive and fosters an environment where students can actively participate and share insights, which he believes enhances the learning process.

One of the highlights of Michael’s career was being awarded the prestigious Walt Disney Legacy Award in 2017, recognizing his dedication to the Disney organization. This accolade is a testament to his hard work and influence in the hospitality industry, which continues to shape his approach as an educator. His commitment to detail and his guidance on APA formatting has also been appreciated by his students, many of whom have reached out to thank him for helping them refine their academic writing.

Outside of his professional work, Michael enjoys spending time with his wife and son, reading, hiking, traveling, going to the movies, watching classic TV shows, and cheering on his favorite football teams. His advice to students and colleagues alike is simple: “In all things you pursue, endeavor to persevere while maintaining your character and integrity.” Michael's diverse background, dedication to his students, and personal values make him a respected and valued member of the Purdue University Global community.

Authors: Julie Dort & Mimi Gough