Seeing the World - Illinois College of Optometry

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The 144 members of the Class of 2011 were welcomed
into the optometric profession during
this year’s commencement ceremony on May 21.
The ceremony at the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller
Chapel brought together distinguished alumni, faculty,
staff and supporters of ICO on a memorable spring day.
“We have all gathered today in this beautiful chapel, to
individually recognize each graduate for the doctor of
optometry degree, to honor those who have exceeded the
high expectations we have for all of our graduates, and to
share with you the fellowship of our faculty, staff, alumni,
family, and friends,” ICO President Arol Augsburger,
OD, told the standing-room-only crowd.
The ceremony’s keynote speaker, former ICO President
Charles F. Mullen, OD, was given the honorary degree,
Doctor of Science in Optometry, in recognition of his outstanding
contributions to the profession of optometry.
Dr. Mullen (pictured, bottom left opposite page, with
Dr. Augsburger) told the assembled graduates and their
families that opportunities abound right now for optometrists
in the areas of patient care, clinical education and
the public health sector. He particularly encouraged
them to advocate on behalf of the profession as the U.S.
health care landscape continues to change.
“Given the aging population, uncertain optometric manpower
needs and the impact of national health care reform,
there is a need for broad-based strategic planning
including professional, academic and corporate participation,”
he told the graduates. “I encourage your active
involvement at the local, state or national level in planning
for your profession’s future. Board certification and
continued professional competency initiatives require
your support as post-graduate credentials are becoming
increasingly important in the health care marketplace.”
During his long and illustrious optometry career, Dr.
Mullen has campaigned tirelessly for the interdisciplinary
approach to clinical education and patient care, and
he successfully led the initiative to certify the first American
optometrists in the use of pharmaceutical agents.
He served as ICO president from 1996 until 2002 and significantly
raised the profile of the institution. During his
tenure, externship sites increased from 9 to 144, student
performance on national board examinations greatly improved,
and he implemented a performance-based strategic
plan that positioned ICO for future success.
20 / Summer 2011 / ICO MATTERS
Congratulations
To The ico class of 2011!
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“In whatever you do, follow the example of your Alma Mater and
strive for pinnacles of excellence,” he said. “For in the final analysis,
it is neither about financial rewards nor power, but pride in your
professional and personal achievements. Character and contribution
will define your success.”