Is there a link between stem cells and the process of apoptosis (Type I cell death)?

Answer 1

Not really, no. Apoptotic cell death is the result of a programmed process, a cascade of intentional system failures. It usually happens as a result of damage to the cell (as in spinal cord injuries resulting in apoptosis of both neurons and oligodendrocytes), or DNA damage as a preventative against unchecked growth (cancer).

Stem cells are capable of undergoing apoptosis, but they don't cause it in other cells or anything.