Academy News
See the latest news and updates from the American Academy of Optometry.
Announcing the 2023 Garland W. Clay Award Recipients
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY ANNOUNCES THE 2023 GARLAND W. CLAY AWARD RECIPIENTS
ORLANDO, FL (August 29, 2023) – The American Academy of Optometry is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2023 Garland W. Clay award:
Mutti, Donald O. OD, PhD, FAAO1*; Sinnott, Loraine T. PhD1; Lynn Mitchell, G. MAS, FAAO1; Jordan, Lisa A. PhD, FAAO1; Friedman, Nina E. OD, MS2; Frane, Sara L. OD2; Lin, Wendy K. OD2
1College of Optometry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
2School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California
The Garland Clay award is presented to the authors of the manuscript published in Optometry and Vision Science (OVS) that has been among the top OVS papers cited in the world research literature in the preceding five years and has the majority vote of the Optometry and Vision Science Editorial Board. This award is for their 2018 paper:
Ocular Component Development during Infancy and Early Childhood
Optom Vis Sci 2018 Nov;95(11):976-985.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30339640/
“The Garland Clay award recognizes the most important paper published in Optometry and Vision Science over the past five years. This year’s award recognizes work by Don Mutti and colleagues who studied how the components of the eye grow and change throughout childhood,” stated Michael Twa, OD, PhD, FAAO, on behalf of the OVS Editorial Board. “Their elegant research studied hundreds of children to establish normative growth curves and developmental expectations for human vision. This work will have a lasting impact on our understanding of refractive errors and the mechanisms underlying their progression.”
“It’s hard to express how grateful the Berkeley Infant Biometry (BIBS) team is to the families and the babies – who are now old enough to have families of their own – for their contributions to the research that meant enough to others to be worthy of this recognition. Without their participation, emmetropization and the growth of the eye are still a mystery,” said Donald Mutti, OD, PhD, FAAO, Clay award recipient.
The Garland W. Clay award recipients will be recognized during the Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 13, at 8:00 am during Academy 2023 New Orleans. The ceremony will be held in Ballroom C of the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. One hour of CE credit can be accrued during this two-hour event.
About the American Academy of Optometry
The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) inspires excellence in optometric practice by fostering research and disseminating knowledge in vision science through its journals, Optometry and Vision Science and Clinical Insights in Eyecare, and the continuing education presented at its annual meeting. The American Academy of Optometry is accredited by COPE to provide continuing education to optometrists.
Fellows of the Academy are committed to the premise that learning is a lifelong obligation of a professional, as is the commitment to expand the profession’s knowledge base through ongoing fellowship and exchange. For more information, visit the website: http://www.aaopt.org.
About Optometry and Vision Science
Optometry and Vision Science (OVS), an official journal of the American Academy of Optometry, is the most authoritative source for current developments in optometry, physiological optics, and vision science. This frequently cited monthly scientific journal has served primary eye care practitioners for more than 75 years, promoting vital interdisciplinary exchange among optometrists and vision scientists worldwide.
In July, the Academy announced David Elliott, PhD, FCOptom, FAAO, as the new Editor-in-Chief of OVS. Learn more at www.aaopt.org/news.
###
Announcing 2023 Award Recipients
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY ANNOUNCES 2023 AWARD RECIPIENTS
ORLANDO, FL (August 1, 2023) – Each year the American Academy of Optometry recognizes distinguished individuals who have made countless important contributions to advancing the profession of optometry.
“Inspiring Excellence in Eye Care: The Academy’s awardees are nominated by Fellows who were inspired by the amazing achievements each awardee attained in research, education, leadership, and/or service to our profession. In New Orleans, we will celebrate these awardees and inspire the next generation of optometrists and vision scientists,” said Melissa D. Bailey, OD, PhD, FAAO, Awards Committee Chair.
The Academy is pleased to announce the 2023 award recipients:
Eric B. Papas, PhD, BScOptom
Charles F. Prentice Medal and Lecture Award
Alex R. Bowers, PhD, MCOptom, FAAO
Glenn A. Fry Award and Lecture
(American Academy of Optometry Foundation Award)
Rabia Mobeen, BOptom, BA, MPhil Optom
Irvin M. and Beatrice Borish Award
Timothy A. Wingert, OD, FAAO
American Academy of Optometry – Essilor Award for Outstanding
International Contributions to Optometry
Jennifer Deakins McCreight, OD, FAAO
William Feinbloom Award
Nathan Efron, AC, DSc, FAAO
Carel C. Koch Memorial Medal Award
Anne Mika Moy, OD, FAAO
Vincent Ellerbrock Clinician Educator Award
Annabelle Seddon
Julius F. Neumueller Award in Optics
(American Academy of Optometry Foundation Award)
Marlee M. Spafford, OD, MSc, PhD, FAAO
Michael G. Harris Family Award for Excellence in Optometric Education
(American Academy of Optometry Foundation Award)
Vondolee Delgado-Nixon, PhD, FAAO
AAOF Excellence in Diversity Awareness and Education Award
Jameel Rizwana Hussaindeen, MPhil, FAAO, PhD
AAOF Outstanding Emerging Leader Award
Ian L. Bailey, OD, FCOptom, DSc, FAAO
Tony Adams Eminent Service Award
Awards of the Section on Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies
Jason Nichols, OD, PhD, FAAO
Max Schapero Memorial Lecture Award
Ralph Stone, MS, PhD
Founders’ Award
Donald Korb, OD, FAAO
Exemplary Service Award
Award of the Public Health and Environmental Vision Section
Padhmalatha Segu, OD, FAAO
Henry B. Peters Award for Public Health and Environmental Vision
(American Academy of Optometry Foundation Award)
Join us for the Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 13, at 8:00 am during Academy 2023 New Orleans in Ballroom C of the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. One hour of CE credit can be accrued during this two-hour event.
The Section on Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies Awards will be presented during the Section Awards Ceremony and Max Schapero Lecture on Wednesday, October 11, at 4:00 pm in Room 255-257. Half an hour of credit can be achieved during this one-hour session.
The Public Health and Environmental Vision Section will hold their Section Awards Ceremony and Henry B. Peters Lecture on Friday, October 13, at 5:00 pm.
About the American Academy of Optometry
The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) inspires excellence in optometric practice by fostering research and disseminating knowledge in vision science through its journals, Optometry and Vision Science and Clinical Insights in Eyecare, and the continuing education presented at its annual meeting. Fellows of the Academy are committed to the premise that learning is a lifelong obligation of a professional, as is the commitment to expand the profession’s knowledge base through ongoing fellowship and exchange. For more information, visit the website: http://www.aaopt.org.
The American Academy of Optometry is accredited by COPE to provide continuing education to optometrists.
Announcing the New Editor-in-Chief of Optometry and Vision Science
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY’S JOURNAL, OPTOMETRY AND VISION SCIENCE, ANNOUNCES NEW EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ORLANDO, FL (July 25, 2023) – The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) is pleased to announce David Elliott, PhD, FCOptom, FAAO, as the new Editor-in-Chief of Optometry and Vision Science (OVS). Elliott succeeds Michael Twa, OD, PhD, FAAO, who is stepping down from the role after seven years.
Elliott comes to OVS after 11 years leading the Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics (OPO) journal. During his tenure as Editor-in-Chief of OPO, submissions increased, and citation metrics improved, leading to OPO’s positioning in the top quartile of ophthalmology and optometry journals and ranking #1 within optometry. Previously, Elliott served as a topical editor for OVS for eight years and as the co-editor of five feature issues. He became a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry in 1992 and has been the recipient of several AAO awards, including the Glenn A. Fry Award (2013), the William Feinbloom Award (2018), and the Garland W. Clay Award (2009, 2011).
“The search committee made a concerted effort to reach out personally to solicit applications from a diverse list of potential candidates. We had the happy problem of interviewing several exceptionally well-qualified applicants,” shared Don Mutti, OD, PhD, FAAO, chair of the search committee. “We evaluated editorial experience, leadership, and the vision for the future of Optometry and Vision Science. Dr. Elliott impressed the committee with his outstanding record of success as Editor-in-Chief of Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics and his creative, data-driven plans for improving the author experience, maximizing value to our readers, and promoting the scientific reputation of the journal.”
For more than seven years, Twa has committed countless hours to elevating the OVS journal, while also operating as Associate Dean at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and then Dean of the University of Houston College of Optometry. During his tenure, the journal’s impact factor rose from 1.4 in 2016 to 2.1 in 2023. Twa championed the modernization of OVS, including a new logo and an improved online experience for both readers and authors, and navigated the transition from a print to a fully online publication.
“The Academy expresses its sincerest gratitude to Michael Twa, whose unwavering commitment and expertise have shaped OVS’s success during the seven years of his oversight,” stated AAO President, Susan Cotter, OD, MS, FAAO. “As we bid farewell, we eagerly welcome our new editor Dave Elliott, who brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record of editorial accomplishments. Their shared dedication and passion for excellence guarantee a smooth transition for the journal. OVS is in excellent hands, and we look forward to Dave’s leadership and the fresh perspectives he will bring.”
“The recognition of my scientific work by the Academy in honoring me with the Glenn Fry Award was a high point of my career. I am similarly honored to be appointed Editor-in-Chief of Optometry & Vision Science,” said Elliott. “The Academy is the leading international optometric organization, and its flagship journal has a vital role in documenting the academic advancement of our profession. I believe I have the requisite skills and experience to be a creative, innovative, and transformative Editor-in-Chief.”
Elliott’s first issue as Editor-in-Chief will be published in January 2024.
About the American Academy of Optometry
The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) inspires excellence in optometric practice by fostering research and disseminating knowledge in vision science through its journals, Optometry and Vision Science and Clinical Insights in Eyecare, and the continuing education presented at its annual meeting.
Fellows of the Academy are committed to the premise that learning is a lifelong obligation of a professional, as is the commitment to expand the profession’s knowledge base through ongoing fellowship and exchange. For more information, visit the website: http://www.aaopt.org.
About Optometry and Vision Science
Optometry and Vision Science (OVS), an official journal of the American Academy of Optometry, is the most authoritative source for current developments in optometry, physiological optics, and vision science. This frequently cited monthly scientific journal has served primary eye care practitioners for more than 75 years, promoting vital interdisciplinary exchange among optometrists and vision scientists worldwide.
###
July In Focus: Message from the President
In May, I shared the exciting announcement about the Academy’s new online journal, Clinical Insights in Eyecare, and its call for case report submissions. This July brings a significant transition for our flagship journal, Optometry & Vision Science (OVS), as we bid farewell to one exceptional leader and embrace another. Last year Michael Twa, OD, PhD, FAAO, OVS’s Editor-in-Chief for the past seven years, informed the Board that successful scientific journals must look to fresh leadership regularly, and it was time for him to pass the editor’s baton to a new person. Following an extensive search conducted by the OVS Editor-in-Chief Search Committee (Academy Fellows Don Mutti, Eddie Chu, Pete Kolbaum, Yi Pang, Chris Wilmer, and Kurt Zadnik) and their careful consideration of numerous highly qualified candidates, David Elliott, PhD, FCOptom, FAAO, was selected as Michael’s successor as the new Editor-in-Chief.
First, we sincerely thank Michael for his remarkable service as OVS Editor-in-Chief. With a stellar record of commitment and excellence, Michael served as Associate Editor before replacing Tony Adams as Editor-in-Chief in 2016. Throughout his 7-year tenure as Editor-in-Chief, Michael demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to the Academy and a profound respect for the journal’s significance to our profession. The countless hours he dedicated to this role and his responsibilities as Associate Dean at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and then Dean at the University of Houston College of Optometry exemplify his unwavering dedication to optometry. Michael’s passion for the Academy has always been evident, especially at the helm of OVS. Under his visionary leadership, OVS experienced remarkable growth, including a successful transition to a fully digital platform with a modernized design, an increase in the journal impact factor, diversification and expansion of the Editorial Board, and monthly thought-provoking editorials (which were always a favorite of mine). As Don Mutti, OD, PhD, FAAO, noted of Michael’s editorials, “They always tackle the most probing, thought-provoking issues in publishing, research, scientific rigor, the highest level of evidence, and what is ultimately best for optometric practice and vision science.”
And how lucky are we that our incoming OVS Editor-in-Chief is Dave Elliott? Dave is well known to many of you because he is a long-time Academy Fellow and recipient of several AAO awards, including the Glenn A. Fry Award (2013), the William Feinbloom Award (2018), and the Garland W. Clay Award (2009, 2011). He also served OVS for eight years as a topical editor and as the co-editor of five feature issues. Dave is widely known in the international vision science community for his 11-year tenure as Editor-in-Chief of Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics (OPO). During his time with OPO, submissions increased, and citation metrics improved so that OPO ranked in the top quartile of ophthalmology and optometry journals and ranked #1 within optometry. So, as they say, “This ain’t his first rodeo!” A Professor of Clinical Vision Science at the University of Bradford Department of Optometry, Dave is known for his dedication to the academic advancement of the profession, excellent communication skills, and innovative spirit. OVS will be in good hands!
I have always been a bit in awe of what it must take to be the Editor-in-Chief of a journal like OVS, and I think how fortunate we are to transition from Michael to Dave. With great anticipation, we look forward to Dave’s leadership and the fresh perspectives he will bring. The journal and our profession are in excellent hands, and we are confident that Dave, like Michael, will continue to propel OVS to new heights.
On behalf of the Academy and the entire optometric community, we extend a heartfelt thank you to Michael for his outstanding contributions, acknowledge the diligence of the OVS Editor-in-Chief Search Committee, and offer a warm welcome to Dave as the new Editor-in-Chief of Optometry & Vision Science. Together, we continue our journey of inspiring excellence in eyecare and advancing the optometric profession.
Cheers–
Sue
Susan A. Cotter, OD, MS, FAAO
President, American Academy of Optometry
Now Accepting Case Report Submissions: Clinical Insights in Eyecare
The Academy recently announced its new case reports journal, Clinical Insights in Eyecare in President Sue Cotter’s InFocus. Clinical Insights in Eyecare is a peer-reviewed online journal that publishes original case reports pertinent to clinical eye care. The new journal will also feature abstracts providing comments from top-ranked, high-impact journals that are not open access to our members. Our editors will highlight key points and provide clinical implications from each of the scanned selected abstracts. In addition, Academy Sections and Special Interest Groups will address relevant questions in a point-counterpoint format each month. Additional information about the journal’s vision and author instructions, including the review process, can be found here.
Since the emphasis is on case reports, the journal will publish original, previously unpublished case reports/series that must be highly relevant to clinical eye care. The case report should highlight a diagnostic dilemma, an application of clinical technology, and/or treatment effects/considerations. The articles must be educational and intended for the clinician or clinical scientist interested in the care of patients. Case reports can be a rare or unusual presentation, but manuscripts do not have to describe an esoteric or exceedingly rare event. Your submission might describe a clinical entity that is seen periodically in most clinics, but the current understanding of the pathophysiology, the diagnostic thought process, the evidence-based treatment options, and the clinical trials that help to define standards of care are not universally known in our community.
Here are some suggestions for submitting case reports to the new journal.
- Carefully review the instructions for authors listed on Scholastica’s website and use the Submission Checklist here before submitting a case report.
- When submitting a case report be certain any necessary authorizations highlighted in the instructions to authors have been completed.
The journal will be published monthly and will begin taking submissions immediately by clicking the button below.
|
A tentative first issue is set to be released later this summer. Whether you practice in a private setting, an academic center, or VA, we encourage you to submit your most interesting cases. Welcome to Clinical Insights in Eyecare!
|
|
In Focus: Message from the President - May 2023
You asked, and we are delivering! Academy Fellows have lamented for years, “Outside of Optometry and Vision Science (OVS), I don’t have another place to publish case reports of the interesting patients I see,” and, “I wish there were even more year-round clinical content from the Academy.” Our flagship journal, OVS, has and will continue to publish high-quality case reports and our profession’s best research. But soon, there will be an additional Academy journal to meet the needs of authors and clinicians in the optometry community.
Today, I am delighted to announce officially the launch of the American Academy of Optometry’s case report journal, Clinical Insights in Eyecare. This new journal fills an important gap in the optometric literature by providing a specific forum for publishing high-quality case reports.
Those interested in the journal’s evolution should know that the Academy Board has tossed around the idea of starting a journal devoted to case reports for numerous years. But, like many things, it is always more complicated and costly than one thinks. In October 2021, the Board appointed an Academy Clinical Journal Task Force to evaluate the merits of, need for, feasibility, and most appropriate format for a case report journal. In April 2022, task force members Diane Adamczyk, Raman Bhakhri, Elaine Chen, Edward Chu, Gary Chu, Mike Earley, Andrew Mick, Glenda Secor, Lee Vien, and Elaine Wells recommended that the Board create a new open-access journal with a case report focus. The exemplary efforts of the task force, in addition to Academy Board member Andrew Mick’s leadership and dogged determination, allow me to announce the launch of our new case report journal today.
Clinical Insights in Eyecare is a peer-reviewed online journal of original case reports or case series relevant to clinical eye care. The case(s) can highlight diagnostic dilemmas, disease pathophysiology and classification, clinical technology applications, or treatment complications or outcomes. As you know, the Academy is committed to advancing the field of optometry by promoting knowledge-sharing and best practices, and Clinical Insights in Eyecare joins OVS as another avenue to assist our Fellows who are dedicated, life-long learners.
The Editor-in-Chief Joe Shovlin (past Academy President and in clinical practice in Scranton, PA) and Associate Editor Raman Bhakhri (Associate Professor at Illinois College of Optometry) are known to many of you because of their clinical expertise and significant contributions to the Academy. We are lucky to have them at the helm of our new venture (or perhaps adventure!). We also have a top-notch editorial review board with a wide range of clinical expertise; thank you to Angie Chen, Mitch Ibach, Nate Lighthizer, Kelly Malloy, Mika Moy, Danielle Robertson, Mo Rafieetary, and Karen Squier for volunteering your time, editorial acumen, and content expertise.
Additionally, Aaron Bronner and Andrew Rixon have agreed to spearhead a journal scan section of abstracts from recently published, peer-reviewed eye care journals that are closed-access (i.e., subscription-based). They will summarize the key points and clinical implications of these papers. What a great way to stay up to date! And to spice things up a bit, there will be monthly point/counter-point discussions of important (and perhaps controversial) clinical questions, with involvement from Academy sections and SIGs. We anticipate there will be something for everyone!
So, to all my fellow clinicians, you have undoubtedly had patients with unusual presentations, rare conditions, or whose cases could offer a new perspective on an existing condition. Wouldn’t having “your” case report published in the inaugural issue of Clinical Insights in Eyecare be awesome? Indeed, it would be great, meaning it is time to put pen to paper or pull out your computer and let your fingers do the talking.
I am signing off now because I need to start writing my case report to beat the submission rush!
PS: If you are interested but have not published a case report previously, do not hesitate to ask an experienced colleague to advise you. As a start, here are two papers that might be helpful:
FDA Issues Public Safety Notice on Amniotic Fluid Eye Drops
Public Safety Notification on Amniotic Fluid Eyedrops from the United States Food and Drug Administration
Please be advised, the FDA recently released the following:
FDA Safety Communication – April 10, 2023
Purpose: To inform the public, including patients and health care practitioners, that manufacturers are marketing and distributing amniotic fluid eyedrops to treat, mitigate, or cure diseases or conditions such as dry eye disease without the required premarket review and approval, raising potential significant safety concerns.
Background: As a general matter, amniotic fluid eyedrops used to treat diseases and conditions in humans are regulated as drugs and biological products under the Public Health Service Act and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and are subject to premarket review and approval requirements. There are currently no FDA-approved amniotic fluid eyedrops to treat, mitigate or cure eye diseases or conditions, and in order for a health care practitioner to offer these products to patients, there must be an investigational new drug application (IND) in effect. In addition, as these products are not FDA-approved, the agency does not have information about their manufacture, and there are no assurances that the products are safe and effective for any disease or condition.
Information for Health Care Professionals: Health care professionals should report any adverse events related to the use of amniotic fluid eyedrops or other FDA regulated products to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program. To file a report, use the MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form. The completed form can be submitted online or via fax to 1-800-FDA-0178. FDA monitors these reports and takes appropriate action necessary to ensure the safety of medical products in the marketplace.
Information for Patients and Consumers: Patients and consumers considering treatment with amniotic fluid eyedrops products in the United States should:
- Ask if the FDA has reviewed the treatment. You also can ask for the FDA-issued Investigational New Drug Application (IND) number and the chance to review the FDA communication stating that the IND is in effect. Ask for this information before getting treatment and follow up with your personal health care provider to confirm this information.
- Request the facts and ask questions if you don’t understand. To participate in a clinical trial that requires an IND application, you must sign a consent form that explains the investigational procedure. The consent form also identifies the Institutional Review Board (IRB) that assures the protection of the rights and welfare of human subjects. Make sure you understand the entire process and known risks before you sign. You also can ask the study sponsor for the clinical investigator’s brochure, which includes a short description of the product and information about its safety and effectiveness.
- Report any adverse events related to the use of amniotic fluid eyedrops or other FDA-regulated products to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program. To file a report, use the MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form. The completed form can be submitted online or via fax to 1-800-FDA-0178. FDA monitors these reports and takes appropriate action necessary to ensure the safety of medical products in the marketplace.
FDA has taken steps to notify manufacturers marketing amniotic fluid eyedrops regulated as drugs and biological products without FDA review or approval. The agency issued two untitled letters in late 2022 to manufacturers of these products that are available on the FDA website. FDA remains committed to protecting patients from unapproved and unproven products and to working with those who share our goal of bringing safe and effective products to market to benefit individuals in need.
More information is available here.
In Focus: Message from the President - March 2023
March is known for many things – St. Patrick’s Day, March Madness, and the first day of spring – all reasons to celebrate! It is also Women’s History Month, which, as it comes to a close, I want to draw attention to because I believe it deserves special recognition. This is a time to honor our past while looking toward the future. I can proudly say that women have contributed significantly to advances in the profession of optometry and to our Academy.
The first woman licensed to practice optometry in the United States was Gertrude Stanton in 1899! She had her own practice in Minnesota, employing an all-female staff. Learn more about her crazy and fascinating history here – she was quite the renegade!
So many notable women have followed, but I am going to highlight some of the “firsts”:
1920 – May Booth-Jones, OD: first female President of an optometry school (Washington School of Optometry in Spokane)
1946 – Jean Babbitt, OD, FAAO: first woman Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry
1971 – Elizabeth Caloroso, OD, FAAO: first woman optometry faculty member, uninvited and with a cigar in hand, to break the ‘men only’ luncheons in the Faculty Club at UC Berkeley
1991 – Norma Levingston, OD: first woman President of the National Optometric Association
1993 – Joan Exford, OD, FAAO: first woman President of the American Academy of Optometry
1995 – Karla Zadnik, OD, PhD, FAAO: first woman optometrist to receive the Glenn A. Fry Lecture Award
1997 – Sarita Soni, OD, MS, FAAO: first woman President of the American Academy of Optometry Foundation
2010 – Carol Rymer, OD, FAAO: first woman optometrist to become a colonel in the United States Army
2011 –Dori Carlson, OD, FAAO: first woman President of the American Optometric Association
2013 – Jennifer Coyle, OD, MS, FAAO: first woman President of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO)
2018 – Barbara Caffery, OD, PhD, FAAO: first Canadian woman elected as President of the American Academy of Optometry
2020 – Karla Zadnik, OD, PhD, FAAO: first woman optometrist to receive the Charles F. Prentice Medal, and only one to receive both the Fry & Prentice Awards
2021 – Angela Chen, OD, MS, FAAO: first pediatric optometrist to be the first author of a randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Ophthalmology
2022 – Sandra Juarez Fortenberry, OD, FAAO: first female Hispanic Dean of a U.S. optometry school (University of the Incarnate Word, Rosenberg School of Optometry)
2022 – Marta O’Grady, OD, FAAO: first optometrist hired as a Director of the Department of Surgery (Universityof Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus)
2022 – Keshia Elder, OD, FAAO: first Black woman Dean of an U.S. college of optometry (University of Missouri-Saint Louis)
2023 – Jennifer Coyle, OD, FAAO: first woman optometrist appointed as the President of a university (Pacific University)
I believe Condoleezza Rice was spot-on when she said, “I think the truth of the matter is, people who end up as ‘first’ don’t actually set out to be first. They set out to do something they love, and it just so happens that they are the first to do it.” I am certain this applies to the firsts that I have listed.
Although the Academy has had only four female presidents: Joan Exford (1993-1994), Karla Zadnik (2011-2012), Barbara Caffery (2019-2020), and myself (2023-2024), my crystal ball predicts this will soon be a more common occurrence given the number of women in Academy leadership positions. Currently, the Academy has ChrisWilmer and Nancy Wong serving with me on the Board, and 68% of our 19 committees, 56% of our 9 Sections, and 67% of our 9 SIGs are chaired by women.
Thank you to the fierce female optometrists mentioned above and all the others too numerous to list who have worked tirelessly for optometry, the Academy, and the greater good.
Geesh, I wish I had more room to list more firsts! If you have a “woman optometry first” you would like to share, please add to the comments on our Women’s History Month social media posts using the icons below.
Trish Shomion, CAE, Joins the American Academy of Optometry as CEO
ORLANDO, FL (March 15, 2023) – The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) announced today that Trish Shomion, CAE, has been appointed CEO. Previously, Shomion was a senior advisor with Global Management Partners, LLC (GMP), a professional association management company where she served as the Executive Director of medical organizations such as the North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society and the Organization for Human Brain Mapping.
“I am thrilled that Trish has joined our Academy. She has extensive experience serving medical associations at local and global levels, and her skill set, leadership style, and personality are the perfect fit,” said Susan Cotter, OD, FAAO, President of the Academy’s Board of Directors. “Working with the Board, Foundation, staff, volunteers, and members, Trish will help make our Academy even better.”
With a strong track record in innovation and impact, at GMP, Shomion achieved consistent year-over-year membership growth, expanded revenue streams, and managed domestic and international medical conferences. Her responsibilities at AAO will be similar and include supporting the Academy Board and the AAOF Board in stimulating organizational growth, promoting innovative research, providing exceptional education, and disseminating knowledge to advance optometric practice and improve patient care.
“I have a passion for mission-driven organizations,” said Shomion. “As a long-term volunteer for non-profit organizations serving people with visual impairments, I am excited for the opportunity to apply my professional expertise in association management to the dynamic organization that is the AAO. I look forward to serving our members by continuing to strengthen the field of optometry through research, education, and strategic partnerships.”
Shomion is a certified association executive (CAE). She graduated from DePauw University with a major in sociology and anthropology and a minor in Spanish.
Announcing the 2022 New Fellows and Diplomates
The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) recently hosted Academy 2022 in San Diego. The organization’s centennial was met with great fanfare, and the Academy welcomed a record number of 309 new Fellows to its ranks. Along with this strong showing of new Fellows, nine current Fellows earned the distinction of Diplomate.
Fellows of the Academy must complete a candidacy process that includes submitting written work demonstrating their skills as an optometrist or vision scientist. They must also sit for an oral exam at the annual meeting. It is estimated that 10 percent of practicing optometrists in the United States are Fellows of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO). Among those eligible for Fellow status are: optometrists, scientists, educators, librarians, administrators and editors. Those who pass the rigorous criteria earn the distinction and the right to use FAAO in their credentials.
Diplomates are Fellows of the Academy who wish to demonstrate their extensive skill in a specific area. Currently nine sections offer Diplomate programs. These include: Anterior Segment; Binocular Vision, Perception and Pediatric Optometry; Comprehensive Eye Care; Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies; Glaucoma; Low Vision; Optometric Education; Public Health & Environmental Vision; and Vision Science.
Below is a complete list of the new Fellows and Diplomates. More information on becoming a Fellow and Diplomate can be found on the Academy’s website at https://aaopt.org/membership/.
About the American Academy of Optometry
The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) inspires excellence in optometric practice by fostering research and disseminating knowledge in vision science through its journal, Optometry and Vision Science, and the continuing education presented at its annual meeting. Fellows of the Academy are committed to the premise that learning is a lifelong obligation of a professional, as is the commitment to expand the profession’s knowledge base through ongoing fellowship and exchange. For more information, visit the website: http://www.aaopt.org.
2022 Fellows
Kaleb Abbott
Rami Aboumourad
Cristina Acevedo
Noell Acord
Stephanie Adams
Lindsay Agro
Prince Akowuah
Abby Alexander
Kory Allen
Meznah Almutairi
Shelby Anderson
Miriam Anglo
Rebecca Aquije
Sabari Arcot
Grace Arnold
Alyanna Arzner
Kofi Asiedu
John Assan
Melissa Atencio
Nicole Auble
Sarah Aumond
Natasha Balani
Seema Banerjee
Ankur Banik
Rusha Barua
Ashley Bascom
Hadas Ben-Eli
Khob Bhandari
Kristen Bisig
Nicholas Blasco
Daniel Bollier
Melissa Bollinger
Petr Boshinski
Mackenzie Bradley
Grace Brasel
Rebecca Braunsdorf
Lauren Bruehl
Rachel Bruinsma
Lewis Bruneel
Nicholas Bruns
Jade Brunsvold
Amy Burcham
Akshaya C Balakrishnan
Melissa Caceres
Wendy Cacioppo
Gabriela Camorlinga
Sophia Capo
Paige Carr
Megan Carter
Christopher Cha
Brian Chado
Mandip Chahil
Jessica Chan
Tak Chau
Chandrashekhar Chawan
Connie Chen
Wei Chen
Christina Cherny
Elizabeth Choi
Kai Yip Choi
Bryan Cholico
Amy Chow
Brian Chow
Zachary Coates
Sylvester Cobbina
Camille Cohen
Kelly Cohen
Thomas Collins
Nora Cothran
Gabriella Courey
Sean Cushman
Michelle D’Amura
Quan Dao
Sweta Das
Sydni Davis Farhat
Melinda Thomas De Jesus
Isabel Deakins
Christin DeMoss
Daniel Detwiler
Eric Devore
Preet Dhami
Daniel Diamond
Randa Djabri
Carolyn Draude
Diana Driscoll
Jennifer Dryden
Ronit Dutta
Jennifer Eng
Michelle Anne Espanto
Ngozika Ezinne
Kimberly Fazio
Kevin Feng
Liana Ferreira
Cara Finn
Kristina Flaig
Randi-Jo Francis
Calliope Galatis
Marissa Gomez
Vivek Goyal
Daniel Grangaard
Hannah Gregory
Paul Grigsby
Kalina Grimm
Ivanna Grynyk
Allison Guindon
Jason Guo
Nayan Gupta
Caroline Haberthy
Megan Hafner
Michael Hall
Allyson Hall Johnson
Shazib Haq
Beth Harper
Kallie Harrier
Kiira Harrison
Belen Healy
Thomas Heinen
Amy Hellem
Andrew Henderson
Elise Hoi
Justin Holland
Alexandra Homann
Megan Horter
Selena Huang
Marie Huegel
Jennifer Hunsader
Tracy Hutchings
Klaus Ito
Sukanya Jaiswal
Janis James
Caitlin Jomoc
Landon Jones
Najiya Kadavath Meethal
Colin Kane
Sydney Kapp
Leyla Karim
Laura Karle
Helen Kee
Devon Kennedy
Katie Ker
Catherine Kerr-Niermann
Almas Khan
Autumn Killop
Deborah Kim
Jung-Sun Kim
Tyler Kitzman
Linus Klingler
Adam Kluck
Jared Koga
Jeffrey Kong
Paul Krabill
Casey Krug
Nora Kuby
Jenny La
Andrea Labunski
Alyssa Lancaster
Jason Lau
Michelle Lee
Richard Lee
Sam Lee
Shannon Leonard
Tsz Wing Leung
Melissa Levine
Jessica Lim
Luqian Liu
Nancy Liu
Kelly Lutmer
Anthony Mac
Crystal Maharrey
Julia Mai
Shreya Malli
Revathy Mani
Lina Manoukian
Jem Martin
Alexander Martinez
Elizabeth Marunde
Tiana Mathieson
Deepmala Mazumdar
Kanesha McBee
Jenna McBride
Michael McDougall
Xue Mei
Courtney Melchione
Matthew Meredith
Alex Meyer
Benjamin Michalicek
Kamila Mikos
Stefanie Mirabella
Salal Mohammad
Monique Mohammed- Weeks
Jennifer Monarrez
Yun Ping Moore
Sheila Morrison
Sara Moses
Marina Naguib
Geetha Nakka Sravani
Divya Nandwani
Ramya Natarajan
MaKay Neilson
Christina Nguyen
Hong Nguyen
Jacqueline Nguyen
Jennifer Nguyen
Linh Nguyen
Olivia Nichols
Rita Nieu
Augustine Nti
Irene Oluwatoba-Popoola
Chee Horng Alex Ong
Uchechukwu Osuagwu
Godwin Ovenseri
Margaret Overstreet
Alyssa Panagos
Simmy Panchal
Rabindra Pandey
Song Park
Johnny Pascual
Komal Patel
Reena Patel
Sapna Patel
Korey Patrizi
Sona Paul
Jennifer Peterson
Alexandra Piper
Andrew Pisetzner
Nicole Poon
Sudan Puri
Cathy Qin
Stephanie Quiroz
Rabab Rafique
Imad Rahman
L Alelujah Ramirez
Tuwani Rasengane
Faisal Rashid
Victoria Ray
Zachary Reynard
Charis-Ann Ricketts
Liana Rivkin
Julia Runco
Patricia Salazar
Rachel Samouha
Alina Sample
John Samssedi
Hannah Sanders
Sherry Sandri
Megan Schmauder
Brian Schmidt
Stephanie Schumacher
Amanda Setto
Muhammad Shahbakht
Kevin Shahnazi
Noreen Shaikh
Cindy Shan
Sherry Shang
Dana Shannon
Deepak Sharma
Zhihui She
Elsa Sheerer
Alaina Short
Peyton Simpson
Neeraj Singh
William Skoog
Claire Skorseth
Morgan Smerud
Jennyffer Smith
Zhi Da Soh
Sheila Soltani
Hannah Song
Andrew Sprenkel
Samuel Stack
Jennifer Steineman
Aidan Stubbs
Zahra Tajbakhsh
Leannza Tang
Fiza Tariq
Colleen Tejchma
Lilian Thoi
Chinenye Timothy
Steffani Tiomno
Isis Topete
Huy Tran
Kelsey Trast
Stella Tu
Kent Uehara
Emiko Vasquez
Marilyn Vricella
Zachary Walburg
Joshua Walek
Charlene Walton
Angela Wen
Rachel Werner
Douglas Widmer
Rachel Williams
Aaron Wolf
Arie Wong
Michael Wong
Miuyi Wong
Hannah Wood
Elspeth Wrigley
Keying Yan
Chang Ye
Jacquelyn Yi
Michelle Yoshimoto
Jessica Young
Alice Yuan
Lauren Zabaleta
Anna Zhang
Joyce Zhang
Evalin Zhao
2022 Diplomates
Anterior Segment
Sarah Lopez
Scott Hauswirth
Binocular Vision, Perception and Pediatric Optometry
Nicklaus Fogt (Research)
Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies
Stuti Misra (Research)
Amy Nau (Clinical)
Erin Rueff (Clinical)
Low Vision
George Papadakis
Optometric Education
Jasmine Yumori
Public Health and Environmental Vision
Lynn Greenspan
President’s Calling - Leadership & Legacy: Looking Toward the Future
In 1922, eleven men gathered in the Planters Hotel in St. Louis to form an organization for “optometric study in higher branches and for the exchange of ideas in optometric work”, and the American Academy of Optometry was born. One hundred years later, the Academy has successfully carried forward that original charge to become the largest organization in the world for optometric professionals.
With these many years behind us, we now have thousands of Fellows and a membership that reflects today’s world. Our membership is inclusive and welcomes all – from gender and race to ethnicity and nationality. Personally, this is a great point of pride for me.
In addition to honoring our history, the Centennial Celebration encourages us to look toward the future and consider what the Academy will become. I believe the foundation for our continued growth began in 2020 with the development of a four-year strategic plan. Built on five “pillars”, the plan is a road map that provides direction to keep the Academy vital and relevant to the profession and honor the changing world around us.
One of the pillars of the plan is “Leadership & Legacy.” which calls for a focus on leadership development and broadening opportunities for all Fellows eager to take on leadership roles. In particular, this pillar provides an actionable approach to expanding our leadership structure to be reflective of our membership in regard to ethnicity, race, age, and gender.
That is a reason to celebrate, indeed. Our Board and committee leaders are committed to collaborating with Fellows to achieve this future. We look forward to sharing more information in the New Year.
Finally, I am pleased to announce our last group of Hall of Fame inductees:
- William Lyle
- Robert Mandell
- Ruth Manny
- Harue Mardsden
- Edwin Marshall
- Timothy McMahon
- O.J. Melvin
- Meredith Morgan, Jr.
- Don Mutti
- Robert Newcomb
- Donald Paine
- Briggs Palmer
- Neil Pence
- John Perry
- Tom Quinn
- Sam Quintero
- Al Rosenbloom
- Bruce Rosenthal
- Mitchell Scheiman
- Lois Schoenbrun
- Glenda Secor
- Joseph Shovlin
- Harold Simmerman
- Earl Smith
- Donald Springer
- Morris Steinfeld
- Loretta Szczotka-Flynn
- Tammy Than
- Gay Tokumaru
- Michael Twa
- Helen Viksnins
- Suresh Viswanathan
- Ed Walker
- Robert Walker
- Richard Weisbarth
- Eugene Wiseman
- Bradford Wild
- Melvin Wolfberg
- Jack “Joe” Yager
- Stanley Yamane
- Karla Zadnik
- John Zettle, Jr.
Sincerely,
Timothy McMahon, OD, FAAO
President
President’s Calling - BRIGHT IDEAS: The Pressure Is On
We’re down to the final 15! Our inaugural BRIGHT IDEAS Pitch Competition is underway, and the field has already narrowed by half. Next up, our competitors are working with industry mentors, fine tuning their pitch, and recording a five-minute podcast about their company or idea for their future use.
What’s on the line? Cash prize packages will be awarded to the top three competitors:
Top 15 Applicants
• Complimentary booth space at Academy 2022 San Diego ($600 value)
• Podcast opportunities prior to the annual meeting
• Invitation to “Fireside Chat” conversations with industry experts
Top 5 Semi-Finalists
All the above, plus:
• The opportunity to pitch live at the conference
• Pitch mentorship and “Business Deep Dive”
Top 3 Winners
All the above, plus:
• $10,000 for first place
• $5,000 for second place
• $2,500 for third place
You won’t want to miss this! Join us on Thursday, October 27, from 4:45 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. during Academy 2022 San Diego. The BRIGHT IDEAS Pitch Competition is presented by the American Academy of Optometry Foundation in collaboration with the Innovation Council.
In other news, Centennial Celebration excitement continues with the release of the names of our next group of Hall of Fame inductees:
• Wolfgang Cagnolati
• Elmer Eger
• Jay Enoch
• Boyd Eskeridge
• Joan Exford
• William Feinbloom
• John Flanagan
• Mert Flom
• Thomas Freddo
• Rex Ghormley
• Edward Goodlaw
• Gunilla Haegerstron-Portnoy
• N. Alden Haffner
• Michael Harris
• Richard Hill
• Henry Hoffstetter
• Daniel Hummel
• Chris Johnson
• Lyndon Jones
• Morris Kirschen
• Carel C. Koch
• Pete Kollbaum
• Donald Korb
• Tom Lewis
• (Gerald) Jerry Lowther
Our Hall of Fame inductees will be formally recognized during a special ceremony prior to the Welcome Reception. Join us in the Convention Center lobby on Wednesday, October 26, at 4:30 p.m. for the unveiling and brief remarks by Centennial Celebration chair Barbara Caffery, OD, FAAO, and President-Elect Sue Cotter, OD, FAAO.
Sincerely,
Timothy McMahon, OD, FAAO
President
Announcing 2022 Award Recipients
Each year the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) and American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF) recognize individuals who have made significant contributions and excelled in the profession.
“The Academy’s awards represent the very best of us, and it is right and fitting that in our centennial year we take the time to honor and celebrate our award recipients,” said John G. Flanagan, PhD, DSc, FAAO, chair of the awards committee and dean of the Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science at University of California Berkeley.
AAO and AAOF are pleased to present the 2022 award recipients:
Ann E. Elsner, PhD, FAAO
Charles F. Prentice Medal Award/AAO
James S. Wolffsohn, BSc, MBA, PhD, FAAO
Glenn A. Fry Lecture Award/AAOF
Jack Phu, OD, PhD, FAAO
Irvin M. and Beatrice Borish Award/AAO
Sajeesh Kumar, PhD, FAAO, FAMIA
American Academy of Optometry – Essilor Award for Outstanding Contributions to International Optometry/AAO
Jerry Cavallerano, OD, PhD, FAAO
William Feinbloom Award/AAO
Hector C. Santiago, OD, PhD, FAAO
Brien Holden Humanitarian Award/AAO
Loretta B. Szczotka-Flynn, OD, PhD, FAAO
Carel C. Koch Medal/AAO
Joseph C. Lehman, OD, MS
The Julius F. Neumueller Award in Optics/AAOF
Sherry J. Bass, OD, FAAO, FCOVD
Vincent Ellerbrock Clinician Educator Award/AAO
“Myopia Control: Why Each Diopter Matters”
Mark A. Bullimore, MCOptom, PhD, FAAO; Noel A. Brennan, MScOptom, PhD, FAAO. Optometry and Vision Science. 96(6):463-465, June 2019.
Garland W. Clay Award/AAO
Jason S. Ng, OD, PhD, FAAO
Michael G. Harris Family Award for Excellence in Optometric Education/AAOF
Herbert Wertheim, OD, DSc, MD
Honorary Fellowship Award/AAO
Joan M. Exford, OD, FAAO
Life Fellowship Award/AAO
Chris A. Johnson, PhD, DSc, FAAO
Life Fellowship Award/AAO
Joseph P. Shovlin, OD, FAAO
Tony Adams Eminent Service Award/AAO
William D. Carter
Founders’ Award/AAO
Robin L. Chalmers, OD, FAAO
Max Schapero Lecture Award /AAO
Sandra Block, OD, MEd, MPH, FAAO
Henry B. Peters Award/AAOF
Award recipients will be recognized at special ceremonies during Academy 2022 San Diego, AAO’s annual meeting, which will be held this year from October 26 – 29, 2022, in San Diego.
About the American Academy of Optometry
The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) inspires excellence in optometric practice by fostering research and disseminating knowledge in vision science through its journal, Optometry and Vision Science, and the continuing education presented at its annual meeting. Fellows of the Academy are committed to the premise that learning is a lifelong obligation of a professional, as is the commitment to expand the profession’s knowledge base through ongoing fellowship and exchange. For more information, visit the website: http://www.aaopt.org.
About the American Academy of Optometry Foundation
The American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF) is the 501(c)(3) philanthropic arm of the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) and was founded in 1947 for the “upholding, broadening, fostering, promoting and aiding of optometric education; the profession of optometry and its practitioners.” The organization provides financial support for optometric research and vision and eye health education to improve patient clinical care. For more information, visit the website: https://www.aaopt.org/home/aaof.
DR. VERA-DIAZ REPRESENTS THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY AT THE NATIONAL ACADEMIES OF SCIENCES, ENGINEERING, AND MEDICINE
National Academies Focus on Myopia Holds First Open Session
BOSTON, MA, August 14, 2023 – Fuensanta A. Vera-Diaz, OD, PhD, FAAO, Director of Research and Associate Professor of Optometry at the New England College of Optometry (NECO) was asked to speak on behalf of the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) at the first meeting of the Committee on Focus on Myopia, in an open session July 18, 2023, in Washington, D.C. at the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM).
The National Academies Board on Behavioral, Cognitive, and Sensory Sciences formed a committee that will deliver a consensus study on findings, conclusions, and recommendations on myopia. This Board is led by Daniel Weiss of the National Academies. The study committee is co-chaired by Terri Young, Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Kevin Frick, Professor at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School.
The study process will include five committee meetings over the course of a year. The evidence gathering phase will include an open session workshop in December 2023 and a review of commissioned papers to provide more information on specific topics. The Committee will then draft a report that will go under review by 12-15 reviewers who will comment and question the report before the National Academies endorsement of official findings and recommendations.
Organizations sponsoring the study participated in the first open session in July to provide an understanding of why they felt myopia was worth further investment, why it is a pressing problem, and what aspects they would like to see addressed thoroughly by the report. Sponsoring organizations include the American Academy of Optometry, National Eye Institute, American Optometric Association, Healthcare Alliance for Patient Safety, Johnson & Johnson, Meta Reality Labs, Research to Prevent Blindness, and Warby Parker Impact Foundation.
Dr. Vera-Diaz explained why myopia is much more than a refractive error and defined myopia as a disease caused by excessive elongation of the eye. Myopia impacts both spatial and temporal visual performance, even when vision is corrected by glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery. The high-risk of blinding diseases associated with myopia, even with low levels of myopia, is a key concern. Dr. Vera-Diaz stated, “We must close the gaps in our knowledge regarding the etiology of myopia and the mechanisms behind the currently available treatments for myopia if we want to improve treatments and prevent myopia altogether, which should be the goal.”
Dr. Vera-Diaz further addressed the need for experimental studies to determine the following:
- • What aspects of being outdoors are protective against myopia?
- • What aspects of near work contribute to myopia?
- • Which children will benefit from treatments that slow the progression of myopia? How much will they benefit?
- • WHY and HOW do treatments, including spectacles, contact lenses, surgical, pharmacological, and red-light therapy, work at the molecular, cellular, but also the visual level?
- • Can current myopia control treatment trial results be extrapolated to other demographics?
- • How can we accurately measure the success of myopia control treatments?
The AAO priorities for the NASEM Statement of Task include 1) to provide independent and objective, biased-free, evidence-based information that clinicians can trust and easily access and interpret; 2) to promote studies that aim to understand the etiology of myopia that will lead to more effective, useful and accessible programs and treatments to control myopia; and, 3) to educate clinicians and the public that myopia is a significant public health concern and that action is needed. These priorities will lead to the AAO’s goal for this study, preventing myopia.
“On behalf of the American Academy of Optometry, we thank Dr. Vera-Diaz for representing our organization and our patients. This is an exciting NASEM initiative designed to address the current mechanistic understanding of myopia pathogenesis, identify knowledge gaps,
and develop a research agenda to better understand the biological and environmental factors that cause myopia. We look forward to NASEM’s report,” said Dr. Susan A. Cotter, President, American Academy of Optometry.
You can watch the July 18 meeting by following this link: https://www.nationalacademies.org/event/40114_07-2023_focus-on-myopia-pathogenesis-and-rising-incidence-committee-meeting-1
ABOUT NECO
New England College of Optometry is a private, nonprofit, and internationally recognized optometry school. We prepare the next generation of eye care providers, educators, and innovators through rigorous curriculum, extensive clinical experiences, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong support network. As an independent optometry school, we focus solely on optometry. Founded in 1894, NECO is the oldest continuously operating optometry school in the U.S. and has been advancing optometric education ever since.
ABOUT AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY
The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) inspires excellence in optometric practice by fostering research and disseminating knowledge in vision science through its journals, Optometry and Vision Science and Clinical Insights in Eyecare, and the continuing education presented at its annual meeting.
Fellows of the Academy are committed to the premise that learning is a lifelong obligation of a professional, as is the commitment to expand the profession’s knowledge base through ongoing fellowship and exchange. For more information, visit the website: http://www.aaopt.org.
Foundation News
See updates and the latest news from the American Academy of Optometry Foundation.
Accepting Applications for 2023 Joe and Janet Barr Early Career Cornea and Contact Lens Research Award
Contact: Sarah Kidd, Awards and Donor Relations at Sarahk@aaoptom.org or 321-319-4864.
American Academy of Optometry Foundation Accepting Applications for
2023 Joe and Janet Barr Early Career Cornea and Contact Lens Research Award
ORLANDO, Fla. (March 1, 2023) American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF) is accepting applications for the 2023 Joe and Janet Barr Early Career Cornea and Contact Lens Research Award. The submission window closes Friday, April 1, 2023, at 5 p.m.
Established in 2012, the award honors Joseph T. Barr and his wife, Janet. Dr. Barr is considered an exceptional mentor and role model of the profession. This research award provides a first- or second-year MS or PhD student in vision science or physiological optics $2,000 of seed funding for research in the areas of cornea/ocular surface or contact lenses.
This award also is eligible for a one-time competitive renewal. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a school or college of optometry, affiliated stand-alone graduate program, or one combined with a professional or residency program. Priority will be given to North American applicants but is not a requirement.
Additional application requirements may be found at https://bit.ly/3y1Sf33, and questions directed to Sarah Kidd, Manager, Awards and Donor Relations
Announcing the 2022 William C. Ezell Fellowship Recipients
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES
2022 WILLIAM C. EZELL FELLOWSHIP RECIPIENTS
ORLANDO, FL (July 18, 2022) – The American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF) is pleased to announce the 15 recipients of the 2022 William C. Ezell Fellowships. Named for founding AAOF president, William C. Ezell, OD, this fellowship seeks to assist full-time students in their pursuit of advanced degrees in optometric research and education.
Since 1949, more than 470 fellowships have been awarded to talented individuals in the field. This year’s recipients will receive $8,000 for the year-long fellowship. They will also be awarded two travel grants of $750 to attend the Academy’s annual meeting and the Association for Research and Vision in Ophthalmology (ARVO) meeting.
Funding for these Fellowships is provided by leading optometric companies, private endowments, and other business organizations representing most sectors of the industry.
The AAOF congratulates the following recipients 2022 Ezell Fellows:
American Academy of Optometry Centennial Ezell Fellow
Charlotte YiYi Wang, OD, FAAO
University of California Berkeley School of Optometry
American Academy of Optometry Centennial Ezell Fellow
Rachel Williams, OD
University of Houston College of Optometry
American Academy of Optometry Section on Cornea, Contact Lenses, and Refractive Technologies (CCLRT) Ezell Fellow
Emmanuel Kobia-Acquah, OD, MSc, FAAO
Technological University Dublin Ireland
American Academy of Optometry Ezell Fellow
Kierstyn Napier – Dovorany, OD, FAAO
Indiana University School of Optometry
American Academy of Optometry Foundation Ezell Fellow
Rebecca Deffler, OD, MS, FAAO
The Ohio State University College of Optometry
Bert C. & Lydia M. Corwin Ezell Fellow
Sidra Sarwat, BOptom, MSc
University of New South Wales
Danne Ventura / Essilor Ezell Fellow
Neeraj K. Singh, BSOptom, MPhil
Indiana University School of Optometry
Irvin M. Borish / Essilor Ezell Fellow
Prince Kwaku Akowuah, OD
University of Houston College of Optometry
John N. Schoen Ezell Fellow
Erica R. Shelton, OD, MS, FAAO
The Ohio State University College of Optometry
Merton C. Flom Leadership Ezell Fellow
Rajendra Gyawali, FAAO
University of New South Wales
Meta Platform Technologies, LLC Ezell Fellow
Jennyffer D. Smith, OD
University of Houston College of Optometry
Michael G. Harris Ezell Fellow
Breanne B. McGhee, OD, MEd, FAAO
Pacific University College of Optometry
Mike Daley / Essilor Ezell Fellow
Marielle Reidy, OD, MS, FAAO
The Ohio State University College of Optometry
Optometric Glaucoma Society (OGS) Ezell Fellow
Carol Lin, OD, MS, FAAO
State University of New York College of Optometry
Rod Tahran / Essilor Ezell Fellow
Augustine Nyarko Nti, OD
University of Houston College of Optometry
This year’s Ezell Fellows will be honored during Academy 2022 San Diego, which is October 26 – 29, 2022.
About the American Academy of Optometry
The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) inspires excellence in optometric practice by fostering research and disseminating knowledge in vision science through its journal, Optometry and Vision Science, and the continuing education presented at its annual meeting. Fellows of the Academy are committed to the premise that learning is a lifelong obligation of a professional, as is the commitment to expand the profession’s knowledge base through ongoing fellowship and exchange. For more information, visit the website: http://www.aaopt.org.
About the American Academy of Optometry Foundation
The American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF) is the 501(c)(3) philanthropic arm of the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) and was founded in 1947 for the “upholding, broadening, fostering, promoting and aiding of optometric education; the profession of optometry and its practitioners.” The organization provides financial support for optometric research and vision and eye health education to improve patient clinical care. For more information, visit the website: https://aaopt.org/about-us/foundation/
