Former WMTV anchor John Stofflet inducted into Silver Circle
MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – Longtime WMTV 15 News Anchor John Stofflet was inducted Sunday into the Wisconsin Silver Circle—a lifetime achievement recognition from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Chicago/Midwest Chapter.
The Silver Circle honor society is an elite group of journalists who have served the industry and their community for 25 years or more: “… Silver Circle members are honored for more than their longevity — they are honored for making an enduring contribution to the vitality of the television industry and for setting standards of achievement we can all hope to emulate. These honorees also give back to the community as mentors, educators and volunteers.”
Stofflet was one of five to be inducted in Wisconsin this year.
“This was an incredibly meaningful day, to share the stage with so many talented journalists and to celebrate with my dear colleagues at WMTV. This ceremony made me realize how fortunate I was to serve the communities of South Central Wisconsin as a broadcaster all these years. Today just reinforced how lucky I was to work with such talented and dedicated teammates. I would not be in the Emmy’s Silver Circle without my circle of colleagues, family and friends,” said Stofflet.
A sixth journalist was inducted Sunday into the Gold Circle, recognizing a remarkable 50 years of service. The careers and accomplishments of all honorees were celebrated during a ceremony held on the Marquette University campus. WATCH the entire presentation and John’s acceptance speech here.
“John was more than the consummate professional. He was the newsroom’s North Star– a mentor and family to his colleagues, and also to our viewers. It was an absolute honor to celebrate this career milestone with him,” said Jessica Laszewski, WMTV’s news director.
Stofflet retired from WMTV in June 2023 after becoming a local icon, anchoring at the station for 18 years. His broadcast career spanned more than 40 years total.
Members of the WMTV team were in Milwaukee Sunday to show our support and appreciation for Stofflet.
Stofflet’s television career started in Madison in June of 1983, when Ronald Reagan was in the White House, “Every Breath You Take” by The Police was the #1 song on the radio, and a gallon of gasoline cost 97 cents.
He is a Middleton native and graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Journalism.
After many years reporting in Madison, Stofflet made the move to Seattle, where he worked for nearly two decades at KING-TV, the NBC affiliate, and also at the National Geographic Channel as a freelance correspondent. Stofflet returned home to Wisconsin and NBC15 in May 2005 to be our main, evening co-anchor.
John has shared the stories of South Central Wisconsin and stories from all corners of the Earth. He has traveled on assignment to all seven continents and more than 40 countries.
He is a 25-time Regional Emmy Winner and has won numerous other honors and accolades from the Wisconsin Broadcaster’s Association and also the Radio, Television, Digital News Association.
Congratulations, John, on your induction into Wisconsin’s Silver Circle!
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