Campus improvement projects in 2022 included the construction of a new south entrance. When completed in 2023, the area will provide an additional shaded patio-type space.
A MESSAGE FROM SCO PRESIDENT LEWIS REICH, OD,
PHD
Throughout the last year, everyone at SCO enjoyed a sense of things returning more to normal. There were challenges and obstacles along the way, but seeing the smiling faces of students excited to immerse themselves into optometry school was very rewarding.
There’s much to be optimistic about at SCO. This past year, optometry was ranked #2 in a national list of the best jobs in the country, with a 121 percent growth in the number of career opportunities as reported by Indeed, an employment website. The American Optometric Association’s latest salary numbers also confirmed that optometry remains a highly rewarding career.
As we work to enhance student success by strengthening test scores and other positive outcomes, SCO is prioritizing a new strategic plan. We’ve also been working with an architectural firm to create a master plan for our campus. New gates are being installed on our campus perimeter to enhance security and create a more cohesive look to our existing properties.
Above all, students remain at the heart of our mission. Everything we do is to give them the best education and training they need to succeed. Our students are excited about joining the ranks of our nearly 7,000 alumni and making their mark on our profession.
SCO’S SUCCESS
In 2022, SCO’s students benefited as patient care numbers returned to pre-pandemic normal, enhancing student education opportunities and clinical revenues. A Quality Enhancement Plan was developed to improve the quality of the contact lens experiences for third-year students.
As The Eye Center celebrated its 20th anniversary, investments were made into renovating sections of the facility. A new Pediatric and Teen Optical Boutique was constructed, with a new Clinical Patient Care Flow & Referral area created. The work is scheduled to be completed in 2023.
In 2023, The Eye Center will expand our Optometric Surgical Care to include a Service Area dedicated solely to the clinical education of future ODs in advanced primary care procedures. By their fourth year, interns will perform YAG Capsulotomies and other procedures under the direct supervision of medical physicians.
VOYCE® Systems translation services were made operational. This real-time video conferencing technology, available in virtually any language, provides interpretative services to patients who need them.
BACK TO
Student life also returned more to prepandemic normal in 2022. After being delayed by two years, a make-up White Coat ceremony was held in May for the Class of 2024 and their guests. The Class of 2026 enjoyed its traditional ceremony with the largest gathering of friends and family in several years on campus.
0% Default Rate
SCO has held a zero percent federal student loan default rate for 24 out of the last 25 years as reported by the U.S. Department of Education. SCO also secured an additional $1.5+ million in federal dollars earmarked for the college’s HPSL loan fund, the most attractive loan offered to students.
For the fall semester, SCO welcomed 133 members of the Class of 2026 from 37 different states (shaded on the map) with a record high 3.69 mean GPA and a 335 OAT.
The Rosemore Low Vision Service at SCO partnered with Sight Savers America to train 14 visually impaired children how to use their newly donated low vision devices.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
Professor Dan Fuller, OD, was appointed to a three-year term as a Council Member for the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education.
Associate Professor Janette Pepper, OD, received the 2022 NOA Dr. Betty Harville Educator of the Year Award.
SCO was represented by faculty and staff as the college partnered with the Memphis Redbirds to promote the college at Education Day, an event drawing thousands of local schoolchildren.
Associate Professor Mike Dorkowski, OD ’04, received the Burnett Faculty Award.
“The Spirit of SCO,” a new staff award selected by faculty members, was presented to Caldon Handy from SCO’s Physical Plant and Mona Howard from The Eye Center.
ALUMNI ACCOMPLISHMENTS
SCO takes pride in the accomplishments of our alumni and welcomes the opportunity to celebrate their success.
2022 BY THE NUMBERS
5834
The number of times Optometry’s Practice Connection (OPC), SCO’s newly branded online placement service, was accessed by students, residents, and alumni seeking career opportunities.
1495
The number of new practice opportunities/positions listed on Optometry’s Practice Connection (OPC) in 2022.
350+
The number of career counseling sessions held with current 3rd and 4th year students.
WEEKEND 2022
MORE THAN 200 ALUMNI ATTENDED OCTOBER’S FALL HOMECOMING AND CE WEEKEND. MORE THAN 40 ALUMNI REPRESENTING 17 DIFFERENT STATES ATTENDED AN ALUMNI/STUDENT MEET AND GREET. HOSTED BY THE HAYES CENTER FOR PRACTICE EXCELLENCE, ATTENDANCE WAS THE BEST EVER FOR THE EVENT, WITH MORE THAN 80+ STUDENTS NETWORKING AND INTERACTING WITH ALUMNI.
248
The number of employment contracts reviewed on behalf of 4th year students.
189
The number of consultations provided to alumni regarding practice operations and transitions.
184
The number of CV and resumés reviewed to assist students and residents with securing opportunities after graduation.
96
The number of employment contracts reviewed on behalf of alumni and residents.
Practice Excellence award recipients were honored by Jerry Hayes, OD ’73, Natalie Hayes, and Nathan Hayes, and included:
ALUMNI ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Noted alumnus Herbert Wertheim, OD ’67, received ASCO’s inaugural Herbert Wertheim Award presented for his contributions to the profession.
Dr. Wertheim, who was included in the 2022 Forbes 400 list, founded Brain Power, Inc., a manufacturer of optical tints for eyeglasses with more than 100 patents and copyrights.
He’s pictured with Dr. Lewis Reich, George Miller, SCO’s Vice President for Institutional Advancement, and Lauren Trowbridge, SCO’s Director of Development, in San Diego.
At SCO’s all-school Convocation ceremony, Sharon Berger Moscow, OD ’80, received SCO’s Lifetime Achievement Award, while Erick Henderson, OD ’17, was presented with SCO’s Young Alumni Award.
President Emeritus Billy Cochran, OD ’68, was inducted into the Tennessee Independent Colleges and Universities Association Hall of Fame.
Ahead of his retirement, Glen Steele, OD ’69, received the AOA’s Dr. W. David Sullins, Jr. InfantSEE Award.
Commander Emily J. Sprague, OD ’04, was named the Navy Optometrist of the Year before competing with other ODs of the Year from the Army, Air Force, VA, Public Health Service and Reserves to be awarded the overall Armed Forces Optometric Society’s Optometrist of the Year.
Matt Willis, OD ’11, was named Nebraska’s Optometrist of the Year, one of several alumni to be honored by their states as OD of the Year in 2022.
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY SAN DIEGO 2022
The American Academy of Optometry meeting drew record attendance, with a record number of alumni also attending SCO’s reception. Eighteen alumni attained their Academy Fellowships, while 39 SCO faculty members joined students and residents in presenting academic posters.
ACADEMY WIN
SCO’s student team won the Essilor Academic Challenge at the American Academy of Optometry meeting in San Diego. Coached by faculty advisor Morgan Ollinger, OD, the team included Meredith Fry, ’23, Karrie Sestak, ’23, and Lindsey Tillery, ’23.
Alumni who attained Academy Fellowship gathered for a group photo in San Diego.
FACULTY AND STAFF ACCOMPLISHMENTS
SCO’s faculty and staff worked diligently to support our students in the past year. Faculty returned to in-person instruction and worked on strategies to strengthen NBEO board scores.
SCO Professors Glen Steele, OD ’69, and Bill Edmondson, OD, retired after distinguished careers, while new faculty were welcomed, including Drs. Amy Perkins (’11), Elyse Rayborn (’20), and Lisa Wadolowski Koehler. The decision was made to eliminate the Instructor position, with Instructors becoming Assistant Professors effective January 1, 2023.
On the staff side, retired Memphis Police Department Major Marcus Mitchell was hired as SCO’s new Director of Security.
SCO’s Day of Service returned in 2022 as more than 120 faculty and staff members participated in a variety of projects in partnership with other area nonprofits.
A new NBEO Support Coordinator position was created to promote preparation for National Board exam sequence.
SCO’s visiting scientist program resumed as Dr. Clark Chang, accompanied by other members of the Medical Affairs team at Glaukos, presented on keratoconus for SCO’s faculty.
2022 PHILANTHROPY REPORT
OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
SCHOLARSHIP DOLLARS AWARDED
In 2022, SCO was able to award $2,499,006 in scholarship dollars. This was a 45% increase from 2021. SCO is able to provide enhanced scholarship funding to our students due to generous financial support from alumni and friends along with a focus on endowment growth through the years.
683
Number of Donors
GIFTS RECEIVED
In 2022, SCO received $1,195,000 from 683 donors. This total included 12 gifts of $10,000 or higher.
$1,195,000
Total Dollars Raised
$35M Endowment Funds
MESSAGE FROM VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT GEORGE MILLER
Thanks to the generous support of our alumni, friends, faculty and staff, the college enjoyed a tremendous fundraising year. SCO’s mission is to educate the best possible healthcare providers. Our ability to accomplish this goal is due to benefactors, like you, who continue to provide the financial resources needed to fund scholarships and provide the necessary infrastructure and technology needed for our students to succeed. On behalf of the entire Institutional Advancement team, please accept my heartfelt thanks.
CIRCLE OF SIGHT
Southern College of Optometry is grateful for the many dedicated alumni and friends who believe in the importance of our mission and programs and support us through their donations. In honor of these partners, we are pleased to announce the Circle of Sight. The Circle of Sight has been established to honor and celebrate the generosity of donors to SCO throughout the year.
We begin the recognition program with the President’s Circle. The President’s Circle recognizes donors who give $1,000 or more each fiscal year, for any purpose. These donations have an immediate impact at SCO. All members are invited to special President’s Circle events, receive news detailing the impact of the President’s Circle generosity, and receive a welcome packet each year.
WE ARE PLEASED TO RECOGNIZE OUR 2022 PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE DONORS
Stephen Akre, OD ’75, and Debbie Akre
George Bakowski, OD ’73, and Sandy Bakowski
Eugene Bane, Jr., OD ’65, and Becky Bane
Ivan Bank, OD ’83, and Melissa Bank
Allan Barker, OD ’75, and Susan Barker
Ronald Blum, OD ’72, and Kay Blum
Charlene Burnett, OD ’83
Charles Callaway, OD ’83, and Regena Callaway
J. Bart Campbell, OD ’87, and Dawn Campbell
Camile Chiasson, OD ’81
Michael Christensen, OD
William Cochran, OD ’68, and Carolyn Cochran
Cherry Cockrell, OD ’81, and David Cockrell, OD ’81
Steven Compton, OD ’78, and Jane Compton
Christine Cook, OD ’98
Nora Cothran, OD ’13
Michael Dorkowski, OD ’04
Tommy Ducklo, OD ’78, and Beth Ducklo
Bonny Eads, OD ’69
Scott Ensor, OD ’01, and Lisa Ensor
Fred Farias, III, OD ’87
Vicki Farmer and Dennis Farmer
Daniel Fuller, OD
John Gazaway, OD ’67, and Suzanne Gazaway
Michael Gerstner, OD ’97, and Jennifer Gerstner
Charles Glaser, OD ’74, and Cathy Glaser
Glenn Goldring, OD ’78, and Jamie Goldring
William Gordon, OD ’82, and Charvie Gordon
Tonyatta Hairston, OD ’01
Gene Harman, OD ’72
William Harrison, OD ’84, and Carol Harrison
Joseph Hauser, MBA, and Sara Hauser
Jerome Hayes, III, OD ’73, and Cristine Hayes
Cynthia Heard, OD, and Walter Clark
Erick Henderson, OD ’17, and Erin Henderson, OD ’17
Angela Howell, OD ’90, and Norman Wright
John Mark Jackson, OD ’99
Mark Kapperman, OD ’87, and Anita Kapperman
Aaron Kerr, OD ’98, and James Hutto
Helen King, OD ’83, and Christopher King, OD ’83
Charles Kinnaird, OD
James Kirchner, OD, and Dee Kirchner
Gerald Krumbholz, OD ’65
Tracy Lindow, SPHR, SHRM-SCP and Mark Lindow
Amanda Brewer-Lord, OD ’97 and Stephen Lord, OD ’89
Jennifer Lyerly, OD ’11
Terry Marquardt, OD ’74
Stacey Meier, OD ’84, and Sandi Meier
Cheryl Mengelt, OD
George Miller, CFRE and Rachel Miller
David Mills, OD ’78, and Cathy Mills
Paul Mormon, OD ’01, and Kelli Mormon
Martha Rosemore Morrow, OD ’74, and Johnny Morrow
Sharon Berger Moscow, OD ’80, and Billy Moscow, OD ’78
Deborah Moy, OD ’84, and Charles Moy
Morgan Ollinger, OD
Ryan Powell, OD ’02, and Amy Powell
Mohammad Rafieetary, OD
Steven Reed, OD ’95, and Kendra Reed
J. Martin Regan, Jr.
Lewis Reich, OD, PhD, and Diane Reich
Kevin Rogers, OD ’08
Scott Ronhovde, OD ’15, and Anne Ronhovde
Michael Rothschild, OD ’97, and Christy Rothschild
Gregory Russell, OD ’97
James Sandefur, OD ’65, and Lana Sandefur
Dave Sattler
Richard Savoy, OD
Michelle Sellers
Lynn Shaw and Lisa Shaw
John Simmons, OD ’96
Gary Simpson, OD ’64, and Gloria Simpson
Glen Steele, OD ’69, and Brenda Steele
Kurt Steele, OD ’95, and Sacha Steele
Sandra Stephens
Sidney Stern, OD ’71, and Florence Stern
Joseph Sugg, OD ’09, and Ali Sugg
Dean Swick
Marc Taub, OD
Charles Thomas, OD ’84, and Sharon Thomas
Sharon Thomas, OD ’83, and Stuart Thomas, OD ’84
William Thomas, OD ’66
James Venable, OD ’89
Cary Vincent, OD ’78, and Linda Vincent
Lisa Wade, OD ’84, and James Wade
Patricia Estes Walker, OD
Tom Watkins, OD ’90
David West, CPA and Susan West
Keith Whaley, OD ’96
David Wichnoski, OD ’96
Evan Williams, OD ’75, and Colleen Williams
Lauren Windham, OD ’10, and Will Windham
Jerry Winston, OD ’67, and Lisa Winston
David Wolf, OD ’68, PA, and Gloria Wolf
Amanda Wood, OD ’02, and Jarod Wood, OD ’02
Chris Wroten, OD ’02, and Sarah Futch
Wroten, OD ’03
Alan Yates, OD ’94
AN EYE FOR THE FUTURE: Supporting SCO through Gift Planning
Some gifts provide immense satisfaction because they are favorable to both the giver and the recipient. Such is the case with charitable gifts, as they benefit individuals as well as Southern College of Optometry. These gifts are usually the result of careful financial and estate planning as well as a desire to continue supporting SCO after your lifetime.
The first step is to take some time to consider how you want to provide for your loved ones and your charitable interests. It can be helpful to make a list of the individuals you want to support, the property you own along with the details of ownership, the wishes to connect your loved ones and others you care about with those assets and the professionals who can help you accomplish your plans.
While sorting through the many ways (e.g., appreciated property gifts, beneficiary designations for life insurance policies and retirement plan accounts, and trusts) to achieve your philanthropic endeavors, keep in mind that the simplest way is through a gift in your will, also known as a bequest. You can leave what’s left over (the residue) after all other bequests have been satisfied, a percentage of your estate or a specific dollar amount or property. Your attorney can assist you in writing a new will or adding a codicil to an existing one.
If you would like to include SCO in your plans, we can provide the information your attorney will need. Please contact George Miller at (901) 722-3217 for more information.
DONORS ARE ALSO RECOGNIZED ONLINE AT SCO.EDU/2022DONORS
SOUTHERN COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY’S SUCCESS IS MADE POSSIBLE BY THE CONTINUED ENTHUSIASM AND SUPPORT OF OUR ALUMNI, FRIENDS, INDUSTRY PARTNERS, EMPLOYEES, AND STUDENTS.
SCO HONOR ROLL OF DONORS ALUMNI GIFTS BY CLASS
January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2022
SCO is proud to recognize the many alumni who supported the college through scholarship, clinical care, research and unrestricted dollars during the past year. The generosity of SCO’s graduates allows the college to continue its mission to educate the best possible healthcare providers entering the profession of Optometry.
1947
Marion B. Davis, OD
1950
C. Wayne Shearer, OD
1951
Edward L. Robbins, OD
1952
Gerald Hoffman, OD
1955
Jack B. Rapoport, OD
Harlan H. Sears OD
1960
Rufus B. Antley, OD
1962
Joseph A. Lamendola, Jr., OD
Robert L. Sams, OD
Anton L. Young, OD
1963
T. Joel Byars, OD
Paul K. Douglas, OD, FAAO
William C. Oliver, OD
1964
Harold L. Jennings, OD
Walter G. Pitts, OD
Gary C. Simpson, OD
Terrence M. Swinger, OD
William T. Tillar, III, OD
1965
Eugene M. Bane, Jr., OD
Barry J. Davis, OD
Jerry P. Gibson, OD
Gerald A. Krumbholz, OD
James D. Sandefur, OD
William W. Stanfill, OD
1966
Paul D. Michalove, OD
Jerry M. Overall, OD
Jerry B. Park, OD
Milton J. Salomon, OD
William L. Thomas, OD
1967
William S. Benkelman, OD
Lionel N. Chamberlain, OD
E. Watts Davis, OD
Ronald B. Gantt, OD
John A. Gazaway, OD
Edward R. Hoge, Jr., OD
Charles Ingram, OD
Louis J. Layton, OD
Marlene S. Snider Mendenhall, OD
C. Ellis Potter, OD
Jerry M. Winston, OD
1968
Joseph J. Beaman, OD
Larry E. Blackmon, OD
William E. Cochran, OD
James E. Coe, Jr., OD
Henry J. Decker, III, OD
Larry J. Housley, OD
Ray H. Johnson, OD
Neill R. Marshall, OD
Michael Neff, OD
Alta I. Spurrier, OD
Barry H. Whitehead, OD
David L. Wolf, OD, PA
1969
Walter F. Cygan, OD
David Dick, OD
Bonny L. Eads, OD
Glen T. Steele, OD
1970
Joe A. Chambers, OD
Paul W. Derrick, OD
Douglas V. McKillip, OD
Stephen C. Miller, OD
1971
Randall D. Bowling, OD
Ronald E. Giddens, OD
Michael D. Jones, OD
Sidney J. Stern, OD, FAAO
1972
William C. Coffee, OD
Jeffrey H. Cohen, OD
Max Edrington, OD
Jimmy H. Elam, OD
Curtis Lynn Farrar, OD, FAAO
James E. Gamble, OD
Gene A. Harman, OD
Donald P. Humphrey, OD
John H. Leeth, III, OD
William A. Pike, OD
Clayton B. Rhodes, OD
Frank Wasserman, OD
Jerry D. West, OD
1973
George M. Bakowski, OD
Alan L. Blatterman, OD
Joseph G. Goldberg, OD
N. Scott Gorman, OD
Jerome A. Hayes, III, OD
Phillip L. Patterson, Sr., OD
Thomas B. Perry, OD
Kenny J. Wyatt, OD
1974
John D. Bishop, OD
Robin S. Blair, OD
Len A. Brown, OD
James E. Corry, Jr., OD
David H. Dow, OD
Charles G. Glaser, OD
Harold C. Herring, Jr., OD
Terry T. Marquardt, OD
Martha Rosemore Morrow, OD
Kenneth M. Nash, OD
Bob Gene Roberts, OD
William E. Robinson, Jr., OD
Robert W. Smalling, OD
Charles J. Stuckey, Jr., OD
1975
Stephen P. Akre, OD
Allan Leslie Barker, OD
Larry W. Bloomingburg, OD
Robert B. Bower, OD
Jeffrey J. Eger, OD, FIOS
Sheldon G. Greenspan, OD
Jerry D. Jenks, OD
Steven R. Koganovsky, OD
Richard D. O’Connor, Jr., OD
Charles A. Rice, OD
William E. Sterling, Jr., OD
Mike Tannehill, OD
Morris H. Weaver, OD
Evan T. Williams, OD
1976
Edwin F. Adams, III, OD
Robert L. Burns, OD
James M. Campbell, II, OD
Stanley M. Dickerson, OD
Alan L. Ginsburg, OD
W. Carter Glass, OD
Thomas Lentz, OD
Joseph W. Remke, III, OD
F. Mason Smith, OD
Larry D. Snider, OD
S. Michael Veach, OD, FAAO
Brunswick R. Wong, OD
1977
Norma K. Bowyer, OD
James H. Burke, OD
Melanie A. Crandall, OD, FAAO
M. Bert Davis, Jr., OD
Donald R. Hopper, OD
Robert W. McCullough, OD
Michael S. McQuaig, OD
Henry B. Miller, OD
Terry D. Moehnke, OD
Richard C. Orgain, OD
Lawrence A. Routt, OD
Jack L. Schaeffer, OD
W. David Spruill, OD
Kenneth A. Weinberg, OD
1978
James S. Campbell, OD
Steven L. Compton, OD
Mark J. Cook, OD
Tommy J. Ducklo, OD
Gary P. Gegerson, OD
Glenn I. Goldring, OD
Mark A. Lavine, OD
David H. Mills, OD
Billy S. Moscow, OD
Ronald C. Mozingo, OD
Henry V. Sawyer, Jr., OD
David S. Sheffield, OD
Cary J. Vincent, OD
Larry E. Williams, OD
1979
Joseph E. Crump, OD
Donald S. Dorr, OD
Robert C. Fitzhugh, OD
Danny J. Payne, OD
Gerald J. Prchal, OD
Sue T. Prchal, OD
Raymond C. Shackelford, OD
William R. Shumaker, OD
1980
Michael W. Alexander, OD
John L. Brinkley, OD
Gilan L. Cockrell, OD
Lawrence J. LaTour, OD
Sharon Berger Moscow, OD
Lee R. Moore, Jr., OD
Brett K. Radow, OD
Rod L. Rallo, OD
Frank E. Roofe, III, OD
1981
Anthony L. Aker, OD
William A. Bacigalupo, OD
Rick D. Bartlett, OD
Camile L. Chiasson, OD
Cherry B. Cockrell, OD
David A. Cockrell, OD
Andrew G. Cook, Jr., OD
James V. Cornetta, OD
Max M. Downey, OD
L. Shepard Hamrick, Jr., OD
Kendall B. Harris, OD
Gordon W. Jennings, OD
Roger I. Jones, OD
Marion M. Kenney, OD
Ronaldo P. Martin, Jr., OD
Jonathan L. Shrewsbury, OD
Sam R. Silverblatt, OD
James M. Stevens, OD
Stephen D. Stubits, OD
Scott B. Sutherland, OD
Donald G. Upton, OD
“I truly appreciate the opportunity to reduce my student loan debt during my final year of optometry school. This year I have already grown significantly as a clinician in my hometown of Winston-Salem, NC, and been offered a job at my current externship site. None of this would be possible without the support of generous donors!”
SETH JONES | CLASS OF 2023
1982
James O. Cloepfil, OD
Timothy P. Fox, OD
William D. Gordon, OD
Debra A. Hammerer, OD
John R. Hammerer, OD
W. Michael Jamison, OD
Robert W. Seidel, OD
Thomas J. Stander, OD
Bonnie F. Taylor, OD
James J. Whitelock, OD
1983
Ivan B. Bank, OD
Charlene Burnett, OD
Charles A. Callaway, OD
Shawn P. Doherty, OD
Thomas K. Gober, OD
Jackie Greene Gunter, OD
Thomas L. Gunter, Jr., OD
Michael R. Hassell, OD
David N. Hinkley, OD
Lynn Stone Kebert, OD
Edward Lemon, OD
Dawn Rakich, OD
Rhett H. Richardson, OD
Carol L. Scott, OD
Valerie B. Seligson, OD
Duke B. Yoon, OD
1984
James F. Anderson, OD
Thomas E. Dunlap, Jr., OD
William L. Harrison, OD
William L. Jones, OD
Stacey J. Meier, OD
Deborah L. Moy, OD
Jon E. Treadway, OD
Charles E. Thomas, OD
Sharon Holden Thomas, OD
Stuart J. Thomas, OD
Terry L. Tucker, OD
Lisa R. Wade, OD
Kathleen J. Ward, OD
1985
Kathryn M. Beggs, OD
Brian M. Celico, OD
Russell H. Chambless, OD
Daniel DeJarnatt, OD
Janice B. Dunlap, OD
William J. Filchak, OD
Marie C. Kelly, OD
Lenward R. McCalla, OD
J. Curtis Taylor, OD
1986
Janice A. Barr, OD
Alan Fertel, OD
Keith L. Miller, OD
1987
J. Bart Campbell, OD
Steve P. Edwards, OD
Fred Farias, III, OD
Mark R. Kapperman, OD
Treg M. Long, OD
1988
Joseph E. Droter, OD
Robert B. Jordan, OD
Patricia M. Kowalski, OD
1989
Linda Anderson Drake, OD
Michael V. Johnston, OD
Robert F. Lloyd, Jr., OD
Robie H. Robinson, OD
James E. Venable, OD
1990
Sara H. Bopp, OD
Sandra R. Frutchey, OD
Marcus P. Frutchey, OD
Angela C. Howell, OD
Jarrett Ann Johnson, OD
Thomas M. Kretzmer, OD
Tom Watkins, OD
1991
Scott A. Drake, OD
Wendy A. Goldsmith, OD
1992
Eric K. Botts, OD
Amy J. Daiber, OD
Tom Kevin Flowers, OD
Timothy J. Goldsmith, OD
Carla R. Lindsay, OD
James Shawn McBride, OD
1993
George Rod Alberhasky, OD
Richard G. Jabaley, III, OD
Michael A. Kling, OD
Jean Marie Stewart-Gattuso, OD
1994
Laura L. Flockencier, OD
Terry L. Kirkland, OD
Daniel E. Smith, OD
R. Kirk Smith, OD
J. Alan Yates, OD
1995
Michael W. Babatz, OD
Ted W. Brown, OD
Marilyn S. Burich, OD
Eric R. Kuykendall, OD
Steven T. Reed, OD
Kurt T. Steele, OD
Thomas E. Woitasczyk, OD
1996
Richard D. Durocher, OD
Kari Klemm Hudson, OD
Mark D. Jackson, OD
John M. Simmons, OD
Christopher J. Strelioff, OD
Keith E. Whaley, OD
David J. Wichnoski, OD
1997
Amanda Brewer-Lord, OD
Chris H. Cooper, OD
Arthur R. Dampier, OD
Beth W. Eckard, OD
Michael D. Gerstner, OD
Steven E. Goldenberg, OD
Michael S. Rothschild, OD
Gregory C. Russell, OD
Christopher T. Walls, OD
1998
Stuart R. Berry, OD
Caroline L. Cade, OD
Christine Cook, OD
Aaron Kerr, OD
Janusz Luka, OD
Janice McMahon, OD
Derek J. Melton, OD, FAAO
Cynthia J. Ragland, OD
Tchula Morgison Ripton, OD
April D. Smith, OD
Brian D. Smith, OD
Sylvia E. Sparrow, OD
Tonya C. Stewart, OD
1999
Joy M. Berry, OD
Brent L. Croft, OD
Darby Chiasson, OD
Dax M. Eckard, OD
John Mark Jackson, OD
Kiana Kaymanesh, OD
Xinmian Lo, OD
David Olive, OD
Michael Presley, OD
Peter Van Hoven, OD
Mary W. Yeilding, OD
2000
Crystal M. Brimer, OD
Alissa Montano Irons, OD
Anthony D. Reach, OD
Janna Z. Smith, OD
Audra D. Steiner, OD, FCOVD
2001
Jeffrey M. Anastasio, OD
Joshua W. Baker, OD
Jenee’ Barth, OD
Christopher E. Deitrick, OD
Michael Scott Ensor, OD
Tonyatta T. Hairston, OD
Kayla S. Melton, OD
Paul D. Mormon, OD
Bruce A. Pate, OD
Pamela H. Schnell, OD
Tu L. Stone, OD
2002
Shelly Anastasio, OD
Chad William Cullison, OD
James Fleming, OD
Brent Jones, OD
Giovanna Marie Moses, OD
Shay Murphy, OD
Nicole Ann Patterson, OD
Geoffrey Ryan H. Powell, OD
Amanda A. Wood, OD
Jarod R. Wood, OD
Chris W. Wroten, OD
2003
Sarah Sutherland Baldwin, OD
Rebecca J. Brown, OD
Derek A. McTyier, OD
Keith A. Schrunk, OD
HON OR ING DR. STEELE
Institutional Advancement’s Emily Sweeter and George Miller are pictured presenting Dr. Steele with a photo memory book containing numerous quotes and notes from alumni with their gifts.
Many alumni made gifts in 2022 in honor of longtime SCO Professor Glen Steele, OD ’69, when he retired in August.
Alumni and friends made 180 tribute gifts in appreciation of Dr. Steele’s service to the profession and optometric education.
$30,784 DONATED
The funds will grow the Steele/Fors Developmental Vision Scholarships to benefit future students.
ANSWERING THE CALL
SCO students joined our Development team in promoting the return of the college’s Fall Phonathon. Postcards, emails, and other reminders let graduates know that students would be calling.
• Alumni made 174 gifts through phone conversations with student callers.
• $25,475 was raised in gifts and pledges.
• The funds will benefit SCO’s Annual Fund Scholarships for students.
“Throughout the week, I networked with over 100 doctors, received great advice (even a few job offers) and made new friendships! Best week of my life!!”
Aimee Robinson ’25One highlight to note, on the last night of phone calls, one SCO student secured $3,650 from four donors, and 15 new donors joined others in supporting their alma mater.
KIMBERLY CAO | CLASS OF 2024
Andrea Elizabeth Shelton, OD
Sarah Futch Wroten, OD
Cynthia Lynn Zara, OD
2004
George N. Butterworth, OD
Maria Shields Dickerson, OD
Michael T. Dorkowski, OD
Kimberly Johnson Ragan, OD
Emily J. Sprague, OD, USN
Tarra L. Vander Leest, OD
Jen L. Weigel, OD
2005
Laurie Beth Cagle, OD
Jason L. Diamond, OD
Darla N. Ferreira, OD
Eric N. G. Thai, OD
2006
James R. Glass, OD
Jennifer L. Jones, OD
Carrie D. Lebowitz, OD
Gregory D. Loose, OD
2007
Colby B. Curtis, OD
Lindsay M. Elkins, OD
Crystal L. Franklin, OD
Michael A. Hausmann, Jr., OD
Lisa M. Traunero, OD
2008
Andrea N. Baumann, OD
Amanda R. Dellinger, OD
Julia R. Jackson, OD
Sarah S. Lunsford, OD
Jaymini Nayee, OD
Kevin A. Rogers, OD
William B. Teague, OD
Stephen M. Wetick, OD
2009
Matthew Jones, OD
Joseph Sugg, OD
2010
Kendria Cartledge, OD
Craig Fleming, OD
Robert C. Gates, OD
Esla Speth, OD
2011
Erin Cooper, OD
Mandy N. Dailey, OD
Jennifer E. Lyerly, OD
Nicklaus J. Richmond, OD
Hayden H. Sowers, OD
2012
Christie P. Francia OD
Taylor N. Keys, OD
Timothy J. LaFreniere, OD
Brett A. Miller, OD
Jared P. Quesenberry, OD
Michael H. Vuong, OD
2013
Derek A. Black, OD
Nora L. Cothran, OD
Justin C. Jackman, OD
Maria L. Kirkpatrick, OD
2014
Keri Cassels Hartsell, OD
Mary G. Hoang, OD
Kristal Jones, OD
Brian Knight, OD
Andrew Loudon, OD
Kimberly G. Orr, OD
Rachel Vick, OD
2015
Emily Evans, OD
Samuel L. Johansen, OD
Clay McFadden, OD
Scott R. Ronhovde, OD
2016
Halie A. Cottrill, OD
Lindsey D. Hubert, OD
Gregory L. Johnson, OD
Tyler W. Kitzman, OD
Darah L. McDaniel-Chandler, OD
Shaleen B. Ragha, OD
Gregory P. Stewart, OD
2017
Celia R. Baker, OD
Jordan L. Hamric, OD
Erick Henderson, OD
Erin A. Henderson, OD
Derek B. Hennig, OD
William Z. Inboden, OD
Zachary D. Lancaster, OD
Hunter J. Morgan, OD
Benjamin G. Nielson, OD
Peyton E. Richlin, OD
Andrew T. Smith, OD
Sarah L. Vrotsos, OD
Justin C. Zampella, OD
2018
Theresa K. Cassidy, OD
Mary E. Chase, OD
Catherine E. Danko, OD
Cindy K. Heng, OD
Jamie C. Jacobs, OD
Laurel E. Kelley, OD
Morgan L. Kickliter, OD
Michael B. McCullough, OD
Luke D. Moix, OD
Molly E. Pace, OD
Anisha A. Patel, OD
Ty H. Smith, OD
Whitney J. Stock, OD
2019
Vikarma W. Brooks, OD
Elizabeth G. Brooks, OD
Mallory N. Collins, OD
Kamil A. Hill, OD
Blair B. Holden, OD
Jessica L. Jankiewicz, OD
Julia B. Kitchens, OD
Shelby N. May, OD
Royce V. Miles, OD
Ashley B. McGee, OD
Laura M. Mosley, OD
Joel E. Saslawsky, OD
Elizabeth A. York, OD
2020
Victoria J. Long, OD
2021
Kory A. Allen, OD
Grant J. Criger, OD
Hunter M. Edwards, OD
Tara M. Elam, OD
Eva E. Hudson, OD
Marie E. Huegel, OD
Nathaniel J. Jensen, OD
Kelly J. Sieps, OD
Trevor T. Smith, OD
Caitlyn A. Stakeley, OD
Alec Waters, OD
2022
Salman A. Bhatti, OD
Jessica A. Crum, OD
Regan N. Stone, OD
Landon H. Voigt, OD
“I am so grateful for your contribution to my education and future, and I hope you know it continues to have a big impact on my life even outside of the school walls.”
FRIENDS OF SCO
SCO is grateful for the tremendous support received in 2022 from our non-alumni constituents. The College is pleased to have these individuals in our family of donors.
“It’s truly an honor to have received the Dr. Mark W. Franks & Mary Franks Scholarship. Southern College of Optometry has given me the opportunity to grow as a future optometrist and do it alongside incredible faculty and future colleagues. I’m excited to see what the next three years have to offer knowing that this scholarship has made future opportunities possible.”
ANNIE GREMILLION | CLASS OF 2025
Lynn Shaw and Lisa Shaw
Barry L. Shulkin, MD
Donna Simpson-Webb
Rebecca Smietana
Joyce Smith
Gary R. Snuffin
Mark Sowell
David L. Spradlin, CPA
Scott A. Steel, OD
Sandra Stephens
Jr.
Jerry Sullivan
Chiquita L. Rice
Michael Robertson
Tyra L. Robinson
Tammie Robinson
Diane Rudner
Dave Sattler
Lisa Schmittou
E. Michelle Sellers
Dawn Sumler
Dean Swick
Michelle Taylor
Janine Tenorio
Lisa C. Tracy
Philip Tribble
Lauren Trowbridge
Elaine Turcotte
Rhonda Turner
Thomas M. Vanelli
Penny K. Walker
Carolyn J. Warren
Audrey Waters
Christine M. Weinreich, JD and Scott Gettig
David West
Felicia White
John C. Whitener, OD, MPH
Mary Gayle Wilkins
Jason Williams
Susan Williams
Shuntae Williams
Rebecca A. Williams
Ashley Williamson
Antonio Wise
Craig Wright
“I am a recipient of the Board of Trustees Endowed Scholarship. Receiving this scholarship has been a huge blessing to me, as it has allowed me to pursue a career in optometry and significantly lessened the financial stress associated with student loans and debt. This scholarship was one of the main reasons why I chose to enroll at SCO.
I am so thankful for your contribution!”
MATTHEW MOE | CLASS OF 2024
FOUNDATIONS, ASSOCIATIONS AND CORPORATIONS
SCO receives tremendous support from the Ophthalmic industry and business communities. The college is pleased to have these organizations in our family of donors.
Academy of Tennessee
Optometric Physicians
Alcon Laboratories, Inc.
Allergan, Inc.
Amazon
American Academy of Optometry
American Optometric Association
Autozone
Bausch & Lomb
Ben-Glo Inc.
ClearVision Optical
CooperVision
Essilor Luxottica
First Horizon Foundation Hayes Family Foundation
Healthy Vision Association
Heine USA, Ltd.
Jobson Medical Information, LLC
Johnson & Johnson
Vision Care, Inc.
Kentucky Optometric Foundation
Kroger
Lakeland Lions Foundation
L’amy America
Modo
Morel Eyewear
Ocular Instruments, Inc.
Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation, Inc.
Safilo
SECO International, Inc.
Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians
The Jelks Family Foundation, Inc.
Valley Contax
Vision Service Plan
WestGroupe
“Receiving both the Dr. Cheryl D. Johnson Memorial Endowed Scholarship and the MedivisionOmni Endowed Scholarship has been a huge help to me, as they have allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming an optometrist without a financial burden on my shoulders. With these scholarships, I am able to receive the highest level of optometric education here at SCO, so one day I can be the optometrist changing my patients’ lives for the better. I am truly thankful for the endless opportunities these scholarships have allowed me to pursue.”
SEAN MCENTEE | CLASS OF 2025
GUIDE TO GIVING
Your donation makes all the difference in helping us fulfill SCO’s mission to educate the best possible healthcare providers.
STOCKS, BONDS, AND MUTUAL FUNDS
Gifts of securities that have appreciated in value allow you to avoid capital gains taxes while receiving a tax deduction.
UNIQUE GIVING
There are many ways to give back! Explore Estate and Planned Gifts. Take advantage of IRA RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions), and even gift your vehicle.
SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS
Alumni and friends can create their own scholarship fund or give to one that is already established.
ANNUAL FUND
Gifts that support the greatest priorities.
THE PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE
Premier giving society designed to recognize those who give $1,000 or more annually.
ESTATE PLANNING
Include SCO as a beneficiary in your will, retirement accounts (401k or IRA), life insurance policies, living trusts (Charitable Gift Annuity or Charitable Remainder Trust) or DAF (Donor Advised Fund)
LOOKING AHEAD
SCO hopes to see you at one of the many opportunities for us to get together in 2023. Some of 2023’s major events include:
SECO 2023
ATLANTA | MARCH 1-5
CLASS OF 1973’S 50-YEAR REUNION
MEMPHIS | SCO | MAY 1-2
RESIDENTS’ WEEKEND
SCO | JUNE 9-10
SCO-TAOP SPRING CE WEEKEND
SCO | MARCH 31-APRIL 2
COMMENCEMENT
MEMPHIS | MAY 2
AMERICAN OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION
WASHINGTON, D.C. | JUNE 21-24
ORIENTATION
SCO | AUG 30-SEPT 1
FALL HOMECOMING & CE WEEKEND
MEMPHIS | SEPT 21-24
CLASS OF 2027 WHITE COAT CEREMONY
SCO | SEPT 1
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY
NEW ORLEANS | OCT 11-14
Stay in touch with SCO through social media, newsletters, and our alumni magazine. Campus tours may also be arranged. Share your news and accomplishments with us in 2023!
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL
LEWIS REICH, OD, PHD PRESIDENT
J. BART CAMPBELL,
VICE PRESIDENT, ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
JOSEPH HAUSER
VICE PRESIDENT, STUDENT SERVICES
TRACY LINDOW
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HUMAN RESOURCES
GEORGE MILLER
VICE PRESIDENT, INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
sco.edu
@SCOnews
@southerncollegeofoptometry
SANDRA STEPHENS
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
DEAN SWICK
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INFORMATION SERVICES
JAMES VENABLE, OD ’89
VICE PRESIDENT, CLINICAL PROGRAMS
DAVID WEST
VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
southerncollegeofoptometry
SCOedu