ALUMNI MAGAZINE T H E F U T U R E O F H E A LT H S C I E N C E S I N C E 1 9 1 9 .
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IN THIS ISSUE
The Scoop on the Occupational Therapy Institute
Inside Cover Dr. Mittelman’s Message 4 Dr. Verma Retires After a Half Century of Excellence 8 Honoring Dr. Jeffrey Nyman and Dr. Neal Nyman 12 The Orientation and Mobility Pilot: An Innovative Partnership with Vanderbilt 14
What’s the Scoop on OTI?
From President Mittelman
M
any of you have probably heard the term, “We stand on the shoulders of giants” when describing people who have come before us who have made significant impacts to an organization. In this issue of the Salus University alumni magazine, we honor three of these people who have made numerous, notable contributions to the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) as well as the optometric profession. The contributions of Drs. Satya Verma, Jeffrey Nyman and Neal Nyman to the advancement of optometric education and the profession, as well as the careers of thousands of former students and residents, cannot be overstated. These three luminaries of optometry, through their actions and dedication, have changed the way the profession is practiced both nationally and internationally. Dr. Verma, who retired after his 50th year at PCO/Salus in December 2021, was teaching when I arrived as a student in 1976. To this day, I can recall his quick wit, approachability and incredible knowledge of the optometric profession.
His accolades are many as you will learn in this issue on page 5. And for his half-century of service, the externship suite has been dedicated in Dr. Verma’s honor. Dr. Jeffrey Nyman was also at PCO when I arrived, beginning his career here in 1977. I was lucky enough to be assigned to the clinical module Jeff was working in. He too was very approachable, incredibly knowledgeable (still is) and he had a wonderful way of teaching so a novice student could remember every lesson he taught you at every junction of your clinical education. A true pioneer in optometry, Dr. Jeffrey Nyman elevated the value of a PCO/Salus degree and the optometric profession as a whole. As chief of Emergency Services at The Eye Institute (TEI) for the entirety of his career, with a sincere commitment to his patients, Dr. Nyman has enabled our graduates to distinguish themselves through increased expertise in patient care. The University will honor Dr. Jeffrey Nyman by naming the Emergency Service Suite at TEI, The Jeffrey S. Nyman, OD Emergency Service Suite. Dr. Neal Nyman arrived at PCO in the mid-1980s and became interested in doctor-patient relationships. There was no course then in that specific area, so he developed one, which he taught for the next 33 years before his retirement in 2019. Although I never had the opportunity to work closely with Neal, everyone who has will sing his praises as an extraordinary clinician, teacher and advocate for our patients. The University will recognize Dr. Neal Nyman’s decades of service by dedicating the “team room” in TEI’s Primary Care Suite Three, in his honor. Please join us in saying thank you to these three giants. The Nyman Brothers Scholarship Campaign honoring these two exceptional clinical educators has a goal of raising $100,000. All proceeds
will be used to create a scholarship at PCO to be selected with input from both Drs. Nyman and the Dean’s office. Please consider making a meaningful gift — I cannot think of a more apt way to honor these icons of our institution and the optometric profession. Also in this issue, you’ll read about the innovative Orientation and Mobility (O&M) program partnership with Vanderbilt University; a feature on the Occupational Therapy Institute (OTI); and the winners of our annual Alumni Association awards. Thank you for everything you do to support our mission and our community. Together we remain Salus Strong!
Michael H. Mittelman, OD ’80, MPH, MBA, FAAO, FACHE
In this issue INSIDE COVER
From President Mittelman
FEATURES
4 Dr. Verma Retires After a Half Century of Excellence 8 Honoring Dr. Jeffrey Nyman and Dr. Neal Nyman 12 The Orientation and Mobility Pilot: An Innovative Partnership with Vanderbilt 14 What’s the Scoop on OTI?
DEPARTMENTS
14 ON THE COVER
In 2021, the Occupational Therapy Institute (OTI), the on-site clinical facility for the University’s Department of Occupational Therapy, officially opened for patient care and to serve as the clinical training site for OT students. Salus boasts the only program with an on-site clinical facility, which sets it apart.
16 DEI Speaks! Series Makes An Impact 17 Faculty Focus 18 Students At Leisure 20 Alumni News 24 Where Are They Now? 26 2022 Alumni Association Awardees
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COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOPE DALUISIO
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28 In Memoriam
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What’s it like being a first-generation student at Salus? Kaylea Ellison ’22PBHS shares her story.
Tune in today when Riley Abernethy ’25AUD takes over our Instagram stories to give an inside look at a day in the life at Salus!
#salusuniversity #firstgen #gradschool #studentlife #postbacc
#salusuniversity #studenttakeover #ichosesalus #audiology
February 22, 2022
February 7, 2022
Masters in Clinical Optometry students practiced their optometry skills and conducted clinical exams in the Controlled Patient Care program over the past two weeks. Students are supervised by clinicians and examine patients in a controlled environment. #salusuniversity #internationalprograms #optometry #studentlife December 16, 2021
Check out the six programs at Salus that made the 100 Best Jobs of 2022 report by U.S. News! #salusuniversity #topjobs #healthsciences #physicianassistant #speechlanguagepathology #occupationaltherapy #optometry #orthotics #prosthetics #audiology
Join us next Friday when we speak with David X. Marquez, PhD, Professor of Kinesiology and Nutrition and Director of the Exercise Psychology Laboratory, University of Illinois at Chicago. #salusuniversity #onesalus #unitedthroughdiversity #studentlife February 10, 2022
Join us in celebrating the Physician Assistant program on their 100% pass rate on the PANCE exam! #salusuniversity #physicianassistant #passrate
February 2, 2022 February 9, 2022
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SALUS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE
Stay connected to Salus PUBLISHED BY SALUS UNIVERSIT Y
Michael H. Mittelman, OD ’80, MPH, MBA, FAAO, FACHE President Jacqueline Patterson, MPA Vice President, Institutional Advancement and Community Relations MANAGING EDITOR
Alexis R. Abate, MA Director, Communications EDITOR
Want to learn more about our blindness and low vision studies programs? Check out these quick facts! #salusuniversity #lowvision #BLVS #healthsciences #quickfacts February 9, 2022
In this podcast, we talk with Brianna Brim and second-year OT students (Bradley Hess, Aditi Kadakia and Rachel Boas) about the difference between OT and PT. #salusuniversity #occupationaltherapy #physicaltherapy February 4, 2022
Michael E. Morsch Publications Coordinator & Staff Writer CONTRIBUTORS
Alexis Abate, Caren Cremen, Hope Daluisio, Michael Mittelman, Michael Morsch, Juliana Mosley-Williams PhD EDITORIAL ASSISTANCE
Alexis Abate, Robyn Bland, Caren Cremen, Hope Daluisio, Olivia Sweger DESIGN
Roni Lagin & Co. PHOTOGRAPHY
Ryan Brandenberg Photography, Hope Daluisio, Laurence Kesterson, PCO Archives Salus University Alumni Magazine is published bi-annually for alumni, staff, faculty, parents and friends. Please send comments, contributions and address changes to:
“When you’re on the wall, you’re deciding and creating a path for yourself, figuring out the best way to technically get up the wall.”
Stay warm out there, Salamanders!
#salusuniversity #studentlife #studentsatleisure
January 7, 2022
#salusuniversity #snowfun #campus
January 25, 2022
Sun Ray Drugs Chelten Avenue held a booster event last Friday at The Eye Institute for students, faculty and staff as well as their family members.
What is a goniometer? This instrument is used to measure a joint’s range of movement as well as track therapy progress.
#salusuhealth #copingwithcovid #vaccine
#salusuhealth #occupationaltherapy #goniometer
January 25, 2022
February 22, 2022
Office of Institutional Advancement Salus University 8360 Old York Road Elkins Park, PA 19027 215.780.1393 alumni@salus.edu www.salus.edu Salus University by choice, declares and reaffirms its policy of complying with federal and state legislation and does not in any way discriminate in education programs, employment or in service to the public on the basis of race, color, creed or religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disabilities, or veteran status. In addition, the University complies with federal regulations issued under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Questions concerning any of the above policies should be addressed to: Maura Keenan, Affirmative Action Officer, Salus University, 8360 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027 at 215.780.1267.
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Feature
Dr. Verma Retires After a Half Century of Excellence I
n the late 1980s, Satya Verma, OD ’75, FAAO, DPNAP, Diplomate, moved his family from King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, up the road
six miles to Blue Bell. At that point, Dr. Verma had already been at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) for 17 years and had established his professional and personal networks, so the move didn’t change much for him.
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Dr. Verma Retires After A Half Century of Excellence
But for his young daughters, that six-mile journey was another world. “My oldest daughter, who was 10 at the time, said ’Dad, it’s not fair.’ And, I said, we didn’t move that far away, it was only six miles,” Dr. Verma recalled. “And, she said, ’Yes, for you. Your work is the same and your friends are the same. You are meeting them in the same ways. But my school is different, my classmates are different, and I have to start all over again.’ I really took that to heart.” That partially explains why Dr. Verma, who completed his 50th year of working at PCO/Salus in June 2021, stayed all those years. Sure, there were several other reasons — he also had a practice here — but he never forgot those words from his daughter about the difficulties associated with change. And, after half a century, Dr. Verma made a significant
change and officially retired at the end of 2021. “No matter where you go, you’re going to find challenges. So, you can’t run away from issues, you try to make them better,” he said. “The reason I stayed here is because once you come to some place, you develop a comfort zone. You not only have a professional life, you have a personal life as well.” It wasn’t necessarily that way early in his career. He had earned a degree in optometry in his home country of India, where in the late 1960s and early 1970s, optometrists didn’t need a license and were dilating patients. Arriving in the U.S. and eventually landing in Berkeley, California, in 1971, Dr. Verma found that U.S. optometrists needed to be licensed, but at the time, couldn’t even administer eye drops to check for intraocular
pressure or glaucoma. “I thought I was coming to a forward country but I realized, no, not really. In certain areas we were behind, even though we were licensed here,” he said. By 1972, Dr. Verma had arrived in the Philadelphia area at PCO/Salus. And, although he had an opportunity in the early 1980s to leave for a dean’s position at another university, he chose to stay at PCO/Salus and has been here ever since. The accolades have also stacked up during Dr. Verma’s career. He was selected as a delegate to the 1995 White House Conference on Aging and for a Primary Care Health Policy Fellowship at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), one of only four optometrists in Pennsylvania ever selected for the honor. And, he’s the only optometrist in Pennsylvania who was honored twice by the Chester Delaware County Optometric Association going on to receive the American Optometric Association’s (AOA) “Optometrist of the Year” award. In 2019, Dr. Verma received the Nicholas A. Cummings Award from the National Academies of Practice (NAP). He received the Presidential Medal of Honor from PCO/Salus during its Centennial Celebration in 2019 and was a 2020 inductee into the National Optometric Hall of Fame. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/VERMARETIRES
“No matter where you go, you’re going to find challenges. So, you can’t run away from issues, you try to make them better.” SAT YA VERMA, OD ’75, FAAO, DPNAP, DIPLOMATE
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Salus president Dr. Michael Mittelman congratulates Dr. Satya Verma on receiving the University’s Presidential Medal of Honor.
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A young Dr. Jeffrey Nyman performs an eye exam on a patient in the late 1970s.
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Feature
Honoring Dr. Jeffrey Nyman and Dr. Neal Nyman SPRING 2022
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Honoring Dr. Jeffrey Nyman and Dr. Neal Nyman
T
he contributions Drs. Jeffrey Nyman and
“Dr. Neal Nyman
really focused on of both optometric education and the profession, having the patient as well as the careers of more than 7,000 former be central to the students and residents, cannot be overstated. exam. He made sure you were A pioneer in the profession of represents a teaching space within optometry, Dr. Jeffrey Nyman elevated the primary care suites where clinical able to provide the value of a PCO/Salus degree and mentor-mentee relationships flourish the optometric profession as a whole. and where he impacted his students and the patient with As chief of Emergency Services at The residents with his quietly competent Eye Institute (TEI) for the entirety of his and compassionate teaching style. The information career, with a sincere commitment to his University will recognize Dr. Neal patients, Dr. Jeffrey Nyman has enabled Nyman’s decades of service by dedithat they needed PCO/Salus graduates to distinguish cating the team room, located in TEI’s themselves through increased expertise Primary Care Suite Three, in his honor. and you were in patient care. Additionally, in the It is for these reasons and so many delivery and supervising of routine and more that Salus University has chosen to able to create a urgent care, he has mentored students honor them. Please join the PCO/Salus and residents, making them some of the community in saying thank you to these relationship and most talented optometric providers in exceptional clinical educators by making the country. The University will honor a meaningful gift toward our goal of trust with that Dr. Jeffrey Nyman by naming the $100,000. All proceeds will be used Emergency Service at TEI, The Jeffrey S. to create a scholarship for PCO/Salus patient.” Nyman, OD Emergency Service Suite. students with input from both Neal Nyman have made to the advancement
For nearly 35 years, Dr. Neal Nyman served as the chief of Primary Care Module Four in the former TEI and then as chief of Primary Care Suite Three in the renovated facility. The team room
Drs. Nyman and the Dean’s office.
MELISSA TREGO, OD ’04, DEAN OF PCO
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE NYMAN BROTHERS’ PCO JOURNEY, PLEASE READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/NYMAN
“Their cutting-edge
techniques in the clinic, the way they push students and the way they embrace patient care is second to none.” DR. MICHAEL H. MIT TELMAN
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIS ABATE
“I understand the challenges of effective clinical mentorship that Jeff Nyman made look effortless. Jeff’s influence has been foundational for those of us that have continued in clinical training of students and residents.” BRIAN MAHONEY, OD ’85
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Feature
facilities and former O&M specialist. She is a member of the VEI advisory board, where she met Dr. Robinson, who had been brought in to expand low vision services. With Dr. Robinson’s knowledge base and Lebous’ engagement on the advisory board, the two began talking about how to expand O&M services. Lebous began reaching out to a number of people in the low vision and blindness field and connected with VisionServe Alliance, an organization of CEOs of major vision rehabilitation facilities across the country. It was VisionServe Alliance members who suggested Lebous contact Salus, where she approached Fabiana Perla, EdD, COMS, CLVR, chair of the University’s BLVS department, and Maffit to collaborate in the development of this described pilot project. It took about a year for the program to come to fruition. Started in August 2021, the eight week course combined online and in person instruction. Since this program was the first of its kind and the results were so positive, Lebous said Vanderbilt will continue to evaluate the referral base from Dr. Robinson to the PTs in order to continue to validate the importance of the project. In turn, she believes the next step will be to look for other sites where the program can be instituted, an initiative that she hopes will continue to include Salus and Vanderbilt.
The Orientation and Mobility Pilot: An Innovative Partnership with Vanderbilt
J
oshua Robinson, OD, FAAO, director of Low Vision Rehabilitation at the Vanderbilt Eye Institute (VEI), put it succinctly when he said, “This is a big deal.” The “this” Dr. Robinson was talking about is a pilot program developed and implemented by Salus University’s Blindness and Low Vision Studies (BLVS) Department in partnership with Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, specifically for Vanderbilt’s on-staff Physical Therapists (PTs), that provided Orientation and Mobility (O&M) skills-based training PTs could offer their patients. “Unfortunately, there is frequently a
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dearth in the number of O&M instructors available, so people would wait a long time to have their immediate needs met,” said Jamie Maffit, MS, COMS, CLVT, director of Salus University’s O&M program. “The idea was to provide skillsbased training on selected indoor O&M skills for the physical therapists who are often the first rehabilitation professional to meet with the person post-low vision exam and have them provide those first-line basic level skills. And, then refer for further O&M if needed.” The idea to teach PTs to offer basic O&M instruction to patients was the brainchild of Carlene Lebous, a retired CEO and founder of vision rehabilitation
TO READ MORE, GO TO SALUS.EDU/O-MVANDERBILT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOPE DALUSIO
Invested in the Community MacuLogix Establishes Endowed Award at PCO/Salus
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acuLogix, a company that equips eye care professionals with devices and training needed to effectively diagnose agerelated macular degeneration (AMD), has established a $25,000 MacuLogix AMD Advocacy endowed award at PCO/Salus
to be presented annually to a graduating optometrist who’s demonstrated a commitment to managing patients with AMD. PCO/Salus was selected for the award to honor two of its graduates for their practical commitment to AMD diagnosis — Glenn Corbin, OD ’82, of Wyomissing Optometric Center and Gary Kirman, OD ’86, of Kirman Eye. The company has also donated an AdaptDx Pro, used for dark adaptation testing, to The Eye Institute (TEI) at Chestnut Hill.
Salus, STAAR Launch Project MyVision
P
CO/SALUS and its clinical facility, The Eye Institute (TEI), recently partnered with STAAR Surgical, a leading developer and manufacturer of implantable lenses and companion delivery systems for the eye, to launch Project MyVision, a charitable lensbased refractive surgery program. Under the new partnership, STAAR PROJECT MY VISION’S will donate more FIRST PATIENT than two dozen Implantable Collamer® Lenses (ICLs) to underserved, low-income patients
diagnosed with myopia (nearsightedness), which is the need for distance vision correction. Myopia is the most common vision disorder globally and its prevalence is rapidly growing. David Friess, OD ’02, Resident ’03, FAAO, and former president of the University’s Alumni Association, was at the forefront of developing the partnership between the institutions. “The ICL is an elective surgical procedure designed to provide individuals visual freedom from contact lenses and glasses and this new partnership between Salus and STAAR Surgical will expand access to individuals who may not have the economic resources to
consider refractive surgery,” said Dr. Friess, who is currently vice president, global medical affairs at STAAR Surgical. “We believe Project MyVision can also benefit PCO/Salus students during their clinical training by exposing them to the benefits of vision correction with lensbased refractive surgery and potentially opening new career paths for work in collaboration with surgeons and surgical practices.” James Lewis, MD, a Salus University consulting ophthalmologist specializing in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery, will perform the ICL procedures for Project MyVision. Use of facilities, equipment and personnel support are being provided by the Fort Washington Surgery Center. The goal of Project MyVision is to provide ICL implant surgery to patients receiving vision care through TEI with moderate to severe myopia. This elective procedure is not covered by health insurance providers.
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Feature
168+
WHAT’S THE SCOOP ON OTI?
VISITS COMPLETED VIA IN-PERSON AND TELEHEALTH
W
hat is the Occupational Therapy Institute (OTI) you ask? Well, a little over a year ago, OTI, the on-site clinical
facility for the University’s Department of Occupational Therapy, officially opened for patient care and to serve as the clinical training site for OT students. Located within The Eye Institute (TEI), OTI is the University’s newest clinical facility joining TEI, the Pennsylvania Ear Institute and the Speech-Language Institute. Among 12 local, East Coast schools and some of the program’s biggest competitors, Salus boasts the only program with an on-site clinical facility which sets it apart. Since opening, OTI has made contributions to the community through direct patient care, educational programs, and local event participation. They have completed 168 visits, both in person and telehealth, averaging six to nine patient visits per week, and provided seven educational
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programs for pediatrics and adults. Occupational therapy (OT) as a profession focuses on the patient and individualized therapy aimed at creating, maintaining or regaining independence for clients. OTs are skilled at assessing the client, their environment and barriers that limit or challenge the client’s ability to complete their daily activities. OTs work with children, adults, families and caregivers/care-partners and can support individuals with a variety of diagnoses, injuries, and chronic health conditions. For more information or upcoming news about OTI, visit SalusUhealth.com/OTI.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOPE DALUISIO
SERVICES PROVIDED BY OTI: • Valuable clinical experience to graduate students. • Full pediatric and adult assessments and screenings of clients and their environments. • Group intervention sessions to promote increased independence in activities associated with daily living. • Assistance with navigating COVID-19 vaccination and eligibility requirements.
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DEI Speaks! Series Makes An Impact
T
he Office of Diversity, Equity
and Inclusion (DEI) recently hosted two virtual DEI Speaks! events. Both events featured critical conversations by nationally known experts who are truly walking the walk when it comes to DEI. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SALUS.EDU/DEI TO WATCH BOTH EVENT RECORDINGS, VISIT YOUTUBE.COM/SALUSUNIVERSIT Y
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The first discussion was led by David X. Marquez, PhD, an expert in health disparities within the Latino community, who spoke about his research study on Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Marquez is a professor of kinesiology and nutrition and the director of the Exercise Psychology Laboratory at the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is also the lead investigator of a Rush University Medical Center study focused on Alzheimer’s disease risk factors in older Latino adults. He presented data from a 2016 report by researchers at the University of Southern California, citing U.S. Latinos living with Alzheimer’s disease are projected to increase from 379,000 in 2012 to 1.1 million by 2030 and to 3.5 million by 2060 – a growth of 832 percent. However, experts are also acutely aware Hispanics and Latinos are the most historically underrepresented population in today’s Alzheimer’s research, emphasizing the need for increased efforts to engage U.S. Latinos in clinical research. In his talk titled “Importance of Culture in Addressing the Health of Latino/a/xs,” Dr. Marquez discussed how cultural sensitivity can be one of the best tools in working to remove barriers and disparities in health faced by older Latinos. Goals of the study set out to not only influence cognition, but also to increase physical activity, which is why Dr. Marquez developed a dance program called BAILAMOS™, a community-based intervention focused on Latin dancing. Data from his research proved Latin dance to be an effective strategy.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Nydia Han, an investigative reporter and a Sunday morning co-anchor with 6ABC Action News in Philadelphia, prefaced the following virtual DEI Speaks! event with staggering statistics, calling out the dramatic rise in anti-Asian hate crimes in the U.S., when she said, “I really think that we are a community in crisis right now.” Han reported research recently published by the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, revealing anti-Asian hate crime increased by 339 percent last year compared to the year before. In Philadelphia, anti-Asian hate crimes more than quadrupled, jumping from eight to 28 incidents from 2019 to 2020 according to Stop AAPI Hate, a national coalition that tracks and responds to hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Since many of these hateful acts go unreported due to fear from victims, however, Han also acknowledged the real number is difficult to determine. During the one-hour presentation, the Emmy-award winning journalist shared excerpts from her work #ThisIsAmerica (issues of race, discrimination, and bias). The documentary is a series about race and who we are as Americans that Han created after her experience with racism. She recounted the devastating event which prompted her to post a Facebook video in response to a driver who almost hit her, yelling at Han, “This is America,” on a Philadelphia street.
Faculty Focus Breathing Humor into Patient Care DR. TRACY OFFERDAHL-MCGOWAN
Pharmacist, Farmer and Faculty Old McDonald has nothing on Tracy Offerdahl-McGowan, PharmD. When she’s not teaching Salus students in her role as a pharmacist, she’s a “farmacist.” “I’m a pharmacist and a farmer. My husband calls me a PharmD, but he spells it ’FarmD,’” said Dr. Offerdahl-McGowan, assistant professor of pharmacology and therapeutics for the Optometry, Audiology and Physician Assistant (PA) Studies programs at Salus.
Humor has always been an important part of life for Bisant Labib, OD ’14, Resident ’15, FAAO. That’s because she believes humor has the ability to transform any negative situation or emotion into a positive one. “There is no greater bond you can have with someone than to share a laugh together,” said Dr. Labib, associate professor at PCO/Salus and co-chief of Primary Care Suite 3 at The Eye Institute (TEI). READ MORE ABOUT HOW SHE INCORPORATES SARCASTIC HUMOR IN HER INTERACTIONS WITH BOTH STUDENTS AND PATIENTS AT SALUS.EDU/BISANT-L ABIB
READ MORE ABOUT DR. OFFERDAHL-MCGOWAN’S “GENTLEMAN’S FARM” AT SALUS.EDU/TRACYOFFERDAHLMCGOWAN
DR. BISANT L ABIB
EMILY VASILE
She’s a Natural Performer of Theater, That Is Emily Vasile, MAT, TVI, MS ’16, CLVT spends her days teaching others how to teach students with visual impairments and being an instructor in the Educators of Children and Youth with Visual Impairments program and the Low Vision Rehabilitation program at Salus. But in her own time, she’s learned how to be Sarah Brown and Marion Paroo. You don’t recognize those names? Then you might not be a fan of hit Broadway productions or classic films. “I like to perform. I did theater in high school and backstage work in undergrad, but then I took a big break from it. I got involved again when I started working at Salus,” said Vasile. TO FIND OUT HOW EMILY GOT BACK INTO THEATER AGAIN VISIT SALUS.EDU/FOCUSVASILE
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Students At Leisure Angelo Delfino Flies High… on a Trapeze!
Katie Stanton is a Dancing Queen While surfing Instagram looking for a new and unique hobby, Katie Stanton ’24OD, discovered something called “leviwanding.” A “leviwand” is an object manipulation discipline where the practitioner controls a seemingly floating stick. It has its origins in the magic world dating back to the mid-1800s and is known as the “Dancing Cane” trick. Not only did the leviwand satisfy Stanton’s appetite for a new and unique hobby, but it also provided her a coping mechanism for stress. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/KATIESTANTON
When Angela Delfino ’23OT looks to get away from her studies at Salus University and find physical exercise and mental stimulation, she goes all out. Whether it’s rock-climbing, yarn crafting or aerial circus, Delfino is all in. Aerial circus? Yes, from a flying trapeze, to a lyra (a round hoop that hangs from the ceiling) to aerial straps, the activity includes performances where the artist is suspended above the stage or an audience and Delfino has become an expert in her own right. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/ANGEL ADELFINO
Umar Mahmood is Kickin’ It with his High-End Sneakers You might recognize him as the optometrist with the nice kicks. But for Umar Mahmood ’22OD, high-end sneakers have become more than just a fashion statement. They have become a pretty lucrative side business too. And, now the fourth-year PCO/Salus student is working on a way to incorporate his love of optometry and sneakers together. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/UMARMAHMOOD
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Students At Leisure
Even though the rigors of graduate school have slowed down his high-end sneakers business, Umar Mahmood ’22OD makes sure to stay up-to-date with his connections and often helps friends get shoes for reasonable prices.
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Alumni News ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE This past year has continued to challenge us in many ways, but it comes as no surprise that our Salus community remained resilient, compassionate, and committed to our mission. While we begin to gather together this spring and summer, I want to recognize the virtual efforts we worked so hard to achieve together, even from a distance. Over the past year, board members, alumni, and Salus staff came together to strengthen the board’s core program initiatives that support our students and our broader community. Some highlights include: • In partnership with the Admissions office, newly accepted students were contacted by board members and welcomed into the Salus family. • Student grants continue to help offset registration costs and allow students to continue presenting at and attending conferences and workshops both virtually and in person. • Alumni Association Awards recognized professional achievements and contributions of graduates and friends of the University. • Salus Cares Raffle In Memory of Dr. Harry Kaplan continued to support the University’s educational and clinical programs. Thank you for your continued support of all initiatives and the Salus community. In July we welcome president-elect Robert Owens, OD ’80, FAAO into his new position as board president, along with seven new board members. Dr. Owens has been in private practice in New Holland since 1980. He is an active member of the Pennsylvania Optometric Association, the American Optometric Association, a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and is board certified with the American Board of Optometry Thank you to our outgoing directors for your dedication to our work. With your support we were able to continue advancing not only the Association’s mission of enhancing the involvement of our alumni and future alumni, but Salus’ vision to impact the future of healthcare, education and professional practice. With gratitude,
While we begin to gather together this spring and summer, I want to recognize the virtual efforts we worked so hard to achieve together, even from a distance.
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Merle Silverbook MEd, TVI ’08, O&M Specialist ’10
SALUS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE
Class Notes
Class Notes 2020s
Matt Edwards, OD ’13, and his wife Nancy welcomed their second child, Virginia Gail, on October 1, 2021. Finley, Matt’s son, is adjusting well to having a little sister. Edwards also won his first gold bracelet at the 2021 World Series of Poker.
2000s
Danielle Emerick-Engle, MEd ‘19, COMS, and her husband welcomed their first child, Dane, on Jan. 28, 2022.
Christina M. Fox, OD ’02, opened her own practice in 2008. After many years spent concentrating on the business, she expanded her family in December of 2021 when she adopted a son.
Since graduating from Salus with her master’s in Orientation and Mobility, Angela Smith, MS ’18, has worked with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Shore O&M, and Saint Francis de Sales School for the Deaf. She also presented at the 2021 International O&M Symposium, where she discussed visual skill assessment and instruction. Smith was recently engaged to her longterm partner and spent several months road-tripping across the U.S.
Robert M. DiSogra, AuD ’02, retired from practicing audiology after 45 years in service to both children and adults with hearing loss. Dr. DiSogra was a founding member and first chairman of the Osborne College of Audiology’s (OCA) Advisory Board. He was also Salus University Alumni Association’s Alumnus of the Year in 2013. When the AuD Program was inaugurated in 2000, Dr. DiSogra planned and taught the pharmacology/ototoxicity course for five years.
Mindy Brudereck, AuD ’05, was recently elected President-Elect of the Pennsylvania Academy of Audiology (PAA). Sara K. Downs, MS, MBA, AuD ’05, was one of four new members to be elected to the American Tinnitus Association’s (ATA) board of directors to further advance its mission to improve evidence-based tinnitus treatments, educate healthcare providers on tinnitus management, and research potential cures. The ATA is the nation’s only nonprofit dedicated exclusively to improving the lives of approximately 26 million adults in the United States with tinnitus, a chronic condition often referred to as ringing in the ears. She is the owner of Hearing Wellness Center and Tinnitus Treatment Center in Duluth, Minnesota. Dr. Downs oversees tinnitus treatment services and provides audiological services to patients using a holistic approach that incorporates nutrition, communication coaching, and self-care techniques into traditional treatment regimens. The Venango Area Chamber of Commerce has recognized David A. Wagner, OD ’00, as the 2021 Citizen of the Year. Dr. Wagner specializes in pediatrics, low vision, and medical eye care, including glaucoma, dry eye, and macular degeneration. Maximizing the learning ability of children is very important to Dr. Wagner due to the drastic change that improved focus and eye teaming skills can make in one’s life. Another passion of his is preventing ocular diseases by working with diet lifestyle, and dietary supplements. Dr. Wagner has also been active in mission trips to Haiti and the Dominican Republic, participating in medical and vision clinics. He helped diagnose and treat eye diseases, give eye exams, fit people with glasses, and provide education on
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Class Notes improving overall health and eye care. Today he continues to advocate for outreach in these areas.
1990s
Alan G. Kabat, OD ’90, FAAO, recently celebrated his one-year anniversary as medical director at Oyster Point Pharma, Inc., after retiring from teaching at PCO in 2020. He continues to serve as an adjunct professor at Salus University, teaching classes in both the College of Health Sciences, Education and Rehabilitation (CHER) and at PCO. Bradley T. Cross, OD ’93, was appointed to the State Board of Optometry Examiners for Alaska. Dr. Cross is a member of the National Board Examination Review Committee of the Association of Regulatory Boards of Optometry ARBO and was also recently elected board chairman of the Alaska State Board of Optometry at its March 2022 meeting. Opening Ocean Eye Care fulfilled a longtime dream for local optometrist Jay Taylor II, OD ’94. After serving patients for 25 years at the Delaware Eye Institute, Dr. Taylor opened his new practice to provide a more flexible, personalized approach to service, similar to a concierge concept. He added it was
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heartwarming that many of his existing patients, some of whom he has watched grow up for 25 years, continue to see him. Tenesha A. Bazemore, OD ’95, was featured in the American Association of Corporate Optometrists’ Summer 2021 issue for being a solopreneur, independently operating two Walmart optometry leases with a small staff. CO Summer 21 (flipsnack.com) Christopher Lutz, OD ’99, joined the OCLI Vision team from Stahl Eyecare Experts in late 2021. OCLI Vision is a leading ophthalmology practice whose growth is supported by the management and administrative services of Spectrum Vision Partners (SVP), an organization serving many of the top ophthalmology groups and ambulatory eye surgery centers in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. Stahl Eyecare Experts is Spectrum’s 16th affiliation since 2017.
1980s Jeffrey L. Weaver, OD ’85, has returned to his hometown of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, to be the first optometry director for Cornerstone Care Community Health Centers. He will be leading the organization’s expansion into eye care on its mission to improve the health of patients and residents of the community with special concern for the underserved. Most recently, he was the associate chief of staff for education at the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System, where he had oversight of all clinical training programs serving health profession trainees across 13 disciplines. He retired from a 30-year career in the Army Reserve as a colonel and recipient
of the Legion of Merit. In his spare time, he is a full-time graduate student at Liberty University, working toward a PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. He was also recently appointed to the board of directors of Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH)/ International.
David McPhillips, OD ’85, FAAO, FVI, will be representing Pennsylvania in the National Senior Games in May 2022 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, after winning gold medals in pickleball in the Bucks and Montgomery County Senior Games and in the Pennsylvania Senior games. Participants in the National Senior Games Sports Festival held each year must be 50 years old and in the last games over 14,000 athletes competed in 20 different sports. He was also selected to play in the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships in Naples, Florida, in April 2022. The U.S. Open is the largest pickleball tournament in the world, with 2,200 players and 25,000 spectators. He is the USA Pickleball Ambassador in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, and the pickleball instructor for Horsham Township, Pennsylvania. Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America with more than 4 million players of all ages. It combines many elements of tennis and ping-pong, is played on a tennis-type court, with a paddle and plastic ball with holes. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/MCPHILLIPSPICKLEBALL
Class Notes Patricia M. Cisarik, OD, PhD ’87, has a new publication reporting on a research study that was initiated by one of her students, Brian Randolph, OD, Southern College of Optometry Class of 2021.
1970s Michael Trese, OD ’72, MD, received a laureate award from the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) during the organization’s meeting in New Orleans. The laureate award is the organization’s most prestigious honor, and Dr. Trese will be one of the now 23 individuals to have ever received this award. Dr. Trese is considered to be the central figure in the establishment of modern pediatric vitreoretinal surgery. His most distinguished accomplishments come with his establishment of pediatric retinal surgery as a major area of work and research in ophthalmology, and his advocacy for globally accessible telemedical solutions. With nearly 40 years of clinical experience in ophthalmology — Dr. Trese graduated with his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan — and later went on to earn his OD from PCO and his MD degree from the School of Medicine at Georgetown University. Henry Greene, OD ’74, FAAO, has been elected the chair of the Low Vision Division (LVD) of The Vision Council (sponsor of Vision Expo East and West). His two-year term began in late January 2022. He is the co-founder and president of Ocutech, Inc., the developer and manufacturer of bioptic telescopes for low vision. As the first optometrist to take on this role, Dr. Greene plans to address issues he believes will be helpful for all members of the low vision care community. Addressing this lack of awareness will guide Dr. Greene’s efforts during his term in
office. After moving to North Carolina in 1980, he established Academy Eye Associates in Durham, North Carolina, and later joined the faculty of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill to lead its low vision program, where he ultimately rose to the rank of professor. In his role at Ocutech, he was the Principal Investigator on $1.5 million in National Eye Institute SBIR awards for the development of telescopic low vision aids. Dr. Greene is now retired from clinical practice and devotes his time to developing new telescopic low vision aids, teaching, traveling and photography (post Covid) and advocating for low vision care. Steven Linas, OD ’75, has retired as a partner of the Virginia Eye Institute in metro Richmond, Virginia. He has recently left the Virginia Board of Optometry as past president. He served two four-year terms on the board having been nominated by Republican and Democratic governors. Dr. Linas was legislative chair for the Virginia Optometric Association during its successful campaign to pass one of the most comprehensive optometry scopes of practice laws in the country.
six to 80 to play tennis. At the age of 83, Dr. Feldstein is still practicing and enjoys seeing patients. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/FELDSTEINTENNIS
John R. Aubrey, OD ’67, retired in December 2016. Dr. Aubrey started a practice in Oakmont, Pennsylvania, from 1967 to 1969 before moving back to Johnstown, Pennsylvania, until his retirement. In addition to his private practice, he was a member of the Resident Eye Care of Pennsylvania from 1996 until 2015, providing eye care services in 14 nursing homes in three counties including the Veterans Home in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, for 12 years. His specialties in private practice were low vision therapy, visual perceptual therapy and contact lenses.
Paul J. Lobby, OD ’79, recently retired.
1960s Richard Feldstein, OD ’62, has been playing tennis for more than 75 years. Now he’d like to do what he can to help blind and visually impaired children learn the joys of participating in his beloved sport. Dr. Feldstein offers his consulting expertise at the Highland Park Tennis Club in Pittsburgh, which offers a clinic teaching blind children and adults ages
Arnold Bierman, OD ’68, FAAO, has completed his 53rd year of private practice. Dr. Bierman uses a holistic approach in treating his patients. He evaluates visual performance as it relates to the emotional and stress levels of the patient. He has provided many patients with a way to use their eyes more efficiently and has changed a lot of lives in the process.
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Where Are They Now? MARYL AND
Brittney Hamlett, MMS ’17: Expert in the ER When Brittney Hamlett, MMS ’17, was a student in the University’s Physician Assistant (PA) Studies program, she completed an elective rotation in the Emergency Room. That confirmed that what she wanted to do — be a Physician Assistant in the ER — was going to be the right choice. And, she’s been in the ER ever since. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/BRIT TNEYHAMLET T
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Where Are They Now?
MINNESOTA
Cora Franze, MS ’20: Inspired to go O&M CALIFORNIA
Rachel Plavnik, MS ’19: Go West, Young SLP When she was looking for a speechlanguage pathology (SLP) graduate school, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, resident Rachel Plavnik, MS ’19, wanted to stay close to home. That made the Salus University SLP program — with its focus on interprofessional collaboration and clinical training — the perfect spot for Plavnik to continue her educational journey. But now that speech-language pathologist is a professional, being close to home wasn’t quite as important. As a result, Plavnik moved to Los Angeles where she works at a skilled nursing facility in addition to working part-time at a local hospital. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/RACHELPL AVNIK
Cora Franze, MS ’20, was initially introduced to the field of blindness and visual impairment when she worked as a special education paraeducator at Jefferson Elementary School in Blaine, Minnesota. At the time, she was paired with a girl who was totally blind and behind in visual impairment skills. The girl’s Orientation and Mobility (O&M) specialist, Julie Kochevar, MS ’05, was a Salus University graduate. As a result, Franze heard a lot of good things about the University’s Orientation and Mobility program and she’s now working as an O&M instructor. READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/CORAFRANZE
NEBRASKA
Sara Reuss, MS ’17, CLVT: Career Path Inspiration When Sara Reuss, MS ’17, CLVT, was in high school, her mother would encourage her to volunteer every summer at the Nebraska Center for the Education of Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired, a school in Nebraska City. That’s where she got her first taste of helping visually impaired and blind students. But meeting an Orientation and Mobility specialist changed her career path. “She was really inspiring and I thought O&M sounded like a really great job,” Reuss said. “You can work with students in the school, you can go out into the community, and teach in all these great environments.” READ MORE AT SALUS.EDU/SARAREUSS
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2022 Alumni Association Awardees The Salus University Alumni Association annually recognizes the professional contributions and achievements of graduates and friends of the institution. Awardees are nominated by alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of Salus.
Missy Garber, MA ’05, PhD
Michelle L. Fischer, MMS ’09, PA-C
BLINDNESS AND LOW VISION STUDIES ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
This award is presented to an alumnus of the Salus University Blindness and Low Vision Studies program who has distinguished themselves through extraordinary service and contributions to the field of Blindness and Low Vision Education and Rehabilitation, bringing honor and prestige to Salus University.
This award is presented to an alumnus of the Salus University Physician Assistant Studies program who has distinguished themselves through extraordinary service and contributions to the physician assistant profession, bringing honor and prestige to Salus University.
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Donald Smith, OD ’73 PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD This award is presented to a person or organization, preferably of national standing, who (which) had made a recent significant contribution to Salus University or to their profession.
2022 Alumni Association Awardees
For full awardee biographies, visit salus.edu/alumni-awards
Kimberly M. Cavitt, AuD ’05
Sarah Appel, OD ’79, Resident ’81, FAAO
Amanda Lyons, OTD ’18, OTR/L
AUDIOLOGY ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
ALBERT FITCH MEMORIAL ALUMNA OF THE YEAR AWARD
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
This award is presented to an alumnus of the Salus University Osborne College of Audiology (OCA) or the PCO School of Audiology who has distinguished themselves through extraordinary service and contributions to the profession of Audiology, bringing honor and prestige to Salus University and OCA.
This award is presented to an alumnus of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) at Salus University who has distinguished themselves through extraordinary service and contributions to the profession of optometry, bringing honor and prestige to the College.
This award is presented to an alumnus of the Department of Occupational Therapy at Salus who has distinguished themselves through extraordinary service and contributions to the OT field, bringing honor and prestige to the University.
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In Memoriam WITH SORROW, THE UNIVERSIT Y NOTES THE PASSING OF
1950s Garner H. Downey, OD ’50, passed away on Feb. 1, 2022, at the age of 99. His office of optometry was opened above Downey’s Furniture, his mother and father’s furniture store in Virginia, in 1950. He retired in 2010 after working 59 years. Donald H. Lakin, OD ’53, passed away on Feb. 1, 2022, at the age of 91. After graduation from high school, Dr. Lakin attended the Detroit Institute of Technology in Michigan and then PCO, from which he graduated in 1953 with his Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. Dr. Lakin practiced in the Detroit area for over 30 years, establishing what is now Family Eye Care Associates. Floyd M. Lapidow, OD ’53, passed away on Oct. 17, 2021. Dr. Lapidow graduated from Burlington High School, attended the University of Vermont, and graduated from PCO. He practiced in Essex Junction, Vermont, for more than 50 years, retiring in 2000. Charles Lester LeValley, Jr., OD ’53, passed away on Aug. 10, 2021, at the age of 92. After receiving his doctorate and board certification, he established his practice in Lakeland, Florida, under the name “Dr. Lester LeValley, Optometrist” and later on “LeValley Vision Center.”
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Joseph A. Bouchard, Jr., OD ’54, passed away on Dec. 6, 2021, at the age of 97. He was born in Nashua, New Hampshire, and was a resident of Claremont, New Hampshire, for 51 years. In 1969, he purchased the Optometric Practice of Dr. Porter O. Dexter in Claremont, New Hampshire in which he moved his family in 1970. Melvin H. Winter, OD ’54, passed away on Oct. 1, 2021, at the age of 90. Born in Bronx, New York, he was a graduate of City College of New York and PCO. He opened his optometry practice in Newport News, Virginia, and practiced for 53 years. Jerome H. Resnick, OD ’55, passed away on May 2, 2021, at the age of 89. After graduating from The Bronx High School of Science, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree at New York University and his Doctorate of Optometry at PCO. After his tour in the military, he opened his office in the village of Keeseville, nestled between the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain in New York. Thayne W. Maurer, OD ’57, passed away on Nov. 18, 2021, at the age of 89. Born on June 5, 1932 in Tremont, Pennsylvania, he was a 1950 graduate of the Tremont Senior High School, and a 1957 graduate of the then Pennsylvania State College of Optometry (PSCO). Dr. Mauer had his own practice for 50
SALUS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE
years with offices in Shippensburg and Greencastle, Pennsylvania.
biology from Virginia Commonwealth University and a doctorate from the PCO. He practiced optometry in private practice in Virginia.
1960s
Roxanne Del Frari, MS ’84, passed away on Jan. 4, 2022. In 1984, Del Frari earned her master’s degree as part of the first class in Low Vision Rehabilitation at PCO.
Gilbert E. Selvin, OD ’62, passed away on Sept. 30, 2021, at the age of 88. Dr. Selvin was born in Brooklyn, New York, graduated from Arkansas State University, served in the U.S. Army, and then attended PCO. Jeffrey M. Kramer, OD ’63, passed away on Oct. 22, 2021, at the age of 85. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he graduated from the Pennsylvania School of Optometry in 1963. Dr. Kramer built a successful optometric practice in Clifton Park, New York.
J. Maria Danyi, OD ’87, passed away on July 23, 2021. She attended the University of Maryland, graduating with a bachelor’s in microbiology in 1983 and then attended PCO, graduating in 1987. Dr. Danyi had an optometry practice in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, for 36 years.
2000s 1970s Harold B. Wagner, OD ’79, passed away on Jan. 26, 2022 following a long battle with a chronic medical condition complicated by COVID-19. Dr. Wagner lived in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and practiced optometry until his retirement in 2018.
1980s George A. Stephenson, OD ’83, passed away on Oct. 24, 2021. He was a graduate of the College of William and Mary, received a master’s in
Thomas E. Fisher, AuD ’03, passed away on May 23, 2021. He was employed as an audiologist in Champaign, Illinois, and then relocated to Wausau, Wisconsin, in 1979 and joined Ear, Nose and Throat Associates. He continued to be dedicated to his patients at ENT Associates until his retirement in May of 2019. Alicia M. Krupa, OD ’08, passed away on Feb. 1, 2022 after a four-and-a-half-year battle with colon cancer. After graduation from college, she was employed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals as a research scientist before transitioning to the National
In Memoriam Institute of Health, where she worked as a genetic engineer. From there, she attended PCO and received her Doctor of Optometry (2008).
2020s Anastasia R. Goerl, OD ’21, passed away on Jan. 18, 2022, at the age of 27. Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, she was a 2013 graduate of Lower Dauphin High School, a 2017 graduate of Shippensburg University with a degree in biology, and a 2021 graduate of PCO/Salus where she earned her Doctor of Optometry degree. Dr. Goerl worked for Dombroski Eye Associates in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and formerly with Dr. Glenn Corbin of Wyomissing Optometric Center.
Salus Staff Keith E. Locke passed away on Nov. 27, 2021. Born on October 29, 1946, in East Liverpool, Ohio, Locke was an alumnus of the East Liverpool High School Class of 1964. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1968 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in German. For six years, he served as a part-time patient coordinator for international optometry programs at Salus University; he served in a similar role for Salus’ Veterans Readiness Initiative Pilot Clinic. He is survived by his wife, Linda Casser Locke, OD, FAAO, FNAP, coordinator of interprofessional education at Salus.
Former PCO Faculty Member Dr. Lawrence Ragone Passes Lawrence A. Ragone, OD ’53, FAAO, who joined the PCO faculty in 1965 and at the time of his retirement in 1993 held the rank of associate professor, passed away March 7, 2022, at the age of 94. After graduating from PCO, he served in the U.S. Army as an optometrist at Army hospitals in California and Osaka, Japan. Since beginning his private practice in 1956 after his military service, first in his hometown of Camden, New Jersey, and then later moving to Cherry Hill, New Jersey, Dr. Ragone had been active in all phases of his profession. “Larry was a real leader in optometry for the state of New Jersey,” said Thomas Lewis, OD ’70, PhD, FAAO, PCO president from 1989 to 2008 and president of Salus University from 2008 to 2013. “When the New Jersey optometrists wanted to expand their scope of practice or do anything legislatively, Larry was always a key player because he could influence some legislators to support the optometry cause.” Dr. Ragone was the founder and director of the Camden Optometric Center and a consultant to the Camden Public School system as well as coordinator of eye screening services for the Camden County Department of Health. He served as president of the New Jersey Academy of Optometry, president of PCO’s Alumni Association from 1999-2001, and was a member of PCO’s Board of Trustees. Anthony Di Stefano, OD ’73, MPH, MEd, FAAO, and vice president of Academic Affairs from 1989 to 2014 at PCO/Salus, said Dr. Ragone had a deep and instinctive
public health philosophy that permeated each of his community activities. “He not only understood the barriers that urban underserved populations faced but he took historic steps to address them in Camden,” said Dr. Di Stefano. “For example, he created a Mobile Vision Clinic that visited Hispanic and African churches and other community service organizations to bring screening services and comprehensive eye examinations to neighborhood residents.” Dr. Ragone served on the New Jersey Board of Optometric Examiners and worked extensively within the Lions organization. He joined the International Association of Lions Clubs and served 65 years in that organization, was a past district governor and past council chairman. He received the Albert Fitch Memorial Alumnus of the Year Award from PCO in 1991. Dr. Di Stefano underscored Dr. Ragone’s contribution to the establishment and growth of PCO’s externship program. “When PCO received federal funding in 1976 to establish optometry’s first and largest externship program, Dr. Ragone was there to welcome PCO students for a unique clinical experience and the Camden Optometric Center,” said Dr. Di Stefano. “Students gained not only a rich variety of clinical experiences, but also a deep understanding of the disparities that exist in access to vision and eye care in urban centers.” He was preceded in death by his wife, Anna Marie (DeMarco) Ragone; a sister and brother. Survivors: son, Lawrence A. Ragone Jr. of Cherry Hill; daughter, Mary Ann Ragone, MAS, MPH ’13, of Medford Lakes, New Jersey; and three grandchildren.
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