FOCAL POINTSSpring 2014

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ACOE Re-Accredits MCO

In March, MCO received word of an excellent report from theAccreditation Council on Optometric Education. We have beenreaccredited with two recommendations that must be addressed in thenext year. The first recommendation is that we institute a fullcurriculum review which should involve various constituencies,including alumni. The second recommendation is that we conduct anon-going quality review program in our clinics that evaluates theeffectiveness of our services. These recommendations were expectedand were in the planning stages before the ACOE arrived for a sitevisit. In fact, a curriculum review is underway and we welcomefeedback from our alumni and friends as we develop an innovative,forward thinking and practical curriculum. You will be receiving the linkto an alumni survey via email in the coming weeks. Please take thetime to complete this short survey so that we can best evaluate thestrengths of our program and opportunities for improvement.

Planning for the site visit and the preparation of reports began beforeand during the time that Dr. Damari assumed the Deanship, makingpreparation more complex than in previous years. However, theoutcome proves that even in a time of major transition we can beproud of our program, facilities, education and most of all, our people.

Thoughts from the DeanThe MichiganCollege ofOptometry justgraduated 38new optometriststhis pastweekend who willnow representthe College asalumni. Greatcolleges,

including those in optometric education, are built onsuccessful, supportive alumni. While the educationalprocess obviously has some influence, it is also true thatthe higher the quality of the applicant pool, the higher thequality of the graduates and the more likely they are tobe successful. I have several goals for the MichiganCollege of Optometry as long as I am dean, and foremostamong those is to do everything I can to ensure that wecreate a strong desire for the best undergraduates fromthe state, the region, and the nation to apply to theCollege and that those our admissions committeeaccepts do not hesitate to come here for their optometric

MCOStudentProfiles

Samantha FordyceMCO Class of 2015Hometown: Dewitt,MI

UndergraduateSchool & Major:Ferris State,Bachelor of VisionScience

Fun Fact: I playedvolleyball here at

The ACOE’s final report highlighted many noteworthy things aboutMCO that bear repeating. One statement concerning our new VisionResearch Institute read, “The VRI has potential to facilitate facultydevelopment, increase the College’s visibility and advance theprofession.” Another comment concerned the innovation and design ofour beautiful new facility. The report stated, “The new facility is ashowpiece for the campus. It is well designed and allows formodification in a dynamic and evolving profession.”

As we have recognized since the beginning of our program, the reportstated, “The collegial attitude and dedication to the program and MCOstudents by the faculty is evident and commendable.” Indeed we havea motivated, talented and committed faculty. We were also praised forour academic support of struggling students through tutoring andfaculty interaction. In the interviews with our students the ACOE teamwrote, “Students expressed a strong sense that they had ready accessto both faculty and administrators at MCO.” This is a great benefit of asmall, cohesive program. The report stated, “During interviews,students stated that faculty regularly encourage them to considerresidency opportunities after graduation and a "residency day" is heldin the fall. MCO has also begun, within the new Vision ResearchInstitute, a new research fellowship. The first research fellow began inJuly and has multiple interactions with students through guestlectureships in courses and clinical teaching opportunities.”

We are incredibly pleased with the results of the accreditationprocess. Thank you to Dean Dr. David Damari and Dr. BruceMorgan who led this process as well as to the administrators, facultyand staff who contributed many hours of their time to the accreditationmaterials and site interviews.

WAY TO GO MCO!

MCO-Affiliated Residency ProgramFeatures

Paul Kimbro, OD Henry Ford Optimeyes Primary Care Resident

What have you enjoyed most about yourresidency at Henry Ford? The most enjoyable aspect my residencytraining is the variety that a primary care clinic

education.

Now, we all know of individuals who had less than stellarundergraduate careers yet went on to become very goodoptometry students and excellent optometrists. I havetalked to many alumni at one private college of optometryin particular who seem to believe that those anecdotalcases justify almost an inverse admissions policy,whereby those undergraduates who have a strong desire(or a powerful optometrist parent) but, to state itgenerously, mediocre grades and a below average OATscore should be given preference in the admissionsprocess. To be fair, there are a number of these types ofstudents who, by their actions, have demonstrated thatthey have “turned the corner” on their academic careersand do have the will and the perseverance it takes to dothe work it takes to make it through a modern,comprehensive healthcare doctorate program. But whatmany alumni do not realize is the optometry school theywent to in the 1980s is not the one their children will begoing to today. The scope of practice has expandedconsiderably, as we all know, but what used to pass forgood optometric or medical practice even 20 years ago isnow acknowledged to be little more than conventionalwisdom passed down from doctor to apprentice with littlegrounding in anything other than anecdote. If you don’tbelieve me, consider the “sound” medical thinking onvision therapy for convergence insufficiency (it doesn’twork so you might as well just give pencil push-ups orprism — now we have gold-standard evidence thatoffice-based VT is the only thing that does work betterthan a placebo) or amblyopia (the only thing that works ispatching every waking hour — now we know have thestudies to show that many other modalities work at leastas well and have much better compliance). Theproliferation of scientific literature on vision and ocularcare is unmanageable at this point, so instead of trying tomake the current student learn everything there is toknow, we must adjust our curriculum to what it takes toprepare students for tomorrow’s healthcare marketplace.

So what are the characteristics of today’s ideal optometrystudent? Intelligence, certainly, to handle the rigors ofthe curriculum. This is, in part, the easiest characteristicto identify because of GPA and the OAT academicaverage, but intelligence does not mean the capacity tomemorize, but communication and problem-solving skills.

Ferris for the first twoyears of OptometrySchool and it wasone of the hardestbut bestopportunities I haveever had.

What do you lovemost aboutOptometry? I lovethe doctor patientrelationship and thefact that theprofession isconstantly growingand learning tobetter treat andmanage ourpatients.

Why would aScholarship helpyou? It would help tolower students debtafter graduateschool and wouldhelp students topurchase theequipment they feelwould help them infuture practice.

Share a FavoriteMemory atMCO: There havebeen so manyamazing memories! Idon't know if I canpick one...but Iwould say all of thelate night studysessions.

offers. I have found that challenging cases incontact lenses, disease, or pediatrics canpresent at any time.

What are your plans after this experience?Now that my residency is coming to a close here at Optimeyes, myfuture plans involve moving to West or Southeast Michigan andbecoming involved in a small private or group practice setting to utilizethe skills I have acquired.

Want to learn more about Dr. Kimbro and his research?American Academy of Optometry 2013 Poster: Rapid Visual RecoveryFollowing Resection of a Compressive MeningiomaContact info: Pkimbro@Optimeyes.com

RaeAnn Nordwall, OD Pediatric and Binocular Vision Residency at theMichigan College of Optometry at Ferris StateUniversity

What have you enjoyed most about yourresidency at MCO? I have truly loved the diversity of patients that Ihave seen during my year of residency. Though my love is pediatrics and vision

therapy, I have had ample opportunities to keep my primary care andvision rehabilitation skills sharp and expand on other interests I havein optometry. I have also very much enjoyed interacting with studentsin both lecture and clinic; working with them has pushed my ownknowledge and understanding to a higher level. The researchopportunities I have had during my residency have also beenwonderful, including participating in PEDIG studies.

What are your plans after this experience? After residency, my plans are wide open. I was pleasantly surprisedat how much I enjoyed the teaching aspect of working in an academicsetting, as well as the considerable knowledge I acquired byprecepting students in clinic. However, I also want to explore the restof what our profession has to offer and am considering privatepractice options as well.

This is why many healthcare disciplines, includingmedicine, are increasingly spurning biology majors andseeking out liberal arts and physical science majors fromhigh quality universities.

Self-awareness is also critical, because the idealstudent knows that it is absolutely acceptable andcommon to seek help in a rigorous professional programand knows her- or himself well enough to get that help. Astrong sense of ethics and empathy are absoluterequirements for any professional. Finally, the idealoptometry student should have a strong desire tobecome an optometrist so that he or she will alwaysremember to be perseverant through those difficultweeks of final examinations or studying for Part I of theNBEO.

Now that you know the characteristics of a strongcandidate for admission to MCO, please consider askingall those young women and men who are your patientsto consider our wonderful profession. This is true even ifthey have never considered going into healthcare. Ialways wanted to go to law school when I was young andlook what happened to me!

Sincerely,

David Damari, OD, FAAO, FCOVD

Dr. Lyndsay Wynkoop, ProudlyTaking an Optometric Road LessTraveledAdopted from the Elk Rapids Newspaper

The Michigan

Jake ClarkMCO Class of 2016Hometown:Wyoming, MI

UndergraduateSchool & Major:Grand Valley StateUniversity;Biomedical Science

Fun Fact: I’ve beenon TV twice. Once ata young age in a tvcommercial, and thispast summer in anews feature on alocal coffee houseand my band.

Why did you chooseOptometry? I chosethe profession ofoptometry because itis a way to helpother in a uniqueway. I fully believethat sight is amongthe most preciousgifts. Having theopportunity to helppatients protect thisgreat gift is a great

Want to learn more about Dr. Nordwall and her research? AAO 2013 Poster: "Non-Organic Vision Loss in Pediatric Patients: AComparative Case Series"Contact Info: raeannnordwall@ferris.edu

Matthew Sipola, ODBattle Creek VAMC, Ocular Disease

What you enjoyed most about your residency inBattle Creek? I enjoy serving veterans, treating and managingcomplex cases, and having the ability topractice Optometry to the fullest extent.

What are your plans after this experience?I plan on practicing in Northern Minnesota when

I'm finished with my residency and practice full-scope Optometry in amedically-based practice.

Want to learn more about Dr. Sipola and his research? AAO 2013 Poster: "Sclerochoroidal Calcification" COPE-approved lecture titled "Occlusions: From A through V," to theWestern Michigan Optometric Association Contact info: eyedocsipola@gmail.com

Krystyna Sherman, ODOcular Disease Residency at the Grand RapidsVeteren's Affairs Hospital

What have you enjoyed most about yourresidency in Grand Rapids? The thing I enjoy most about my residency isworking with the veterans; they are such agreat population to serve.

What are your plans after this experience? After residency, I hope to stay in West Michigan, but I would travelanywhere for the right opportunity. I am looking for a practice where Ican practice full-scope optometry, and I would love to put my oculardisease training to use.

Want to learn more about Dr. Sherman and her research? AAO: “The Successful Treatment of Irido-ciliary Body Melanoma usingI-125 Plaque Radiotherapy in a Vietnam-era Veteran.”

College ofOptometry isproud to have analumna like Dr.LyndsayWynkoop on ourteam. Lyndsaygraduated fromMCO in 2010,and completed a

residency in Ocular Disease in 2011. Just after herresidency experiences, Lyndsay made a home for herselfacross the world as an Education Manager TrainingOptometrist at the Pacific Eye Institute in Suva, FijiIslands. The Pacific Eye Institute is a company foundedby the Fred Hollows Foundation committed to eradicatingavoidable blindness in developing countries around theworld. The Fred Hollows foundation was set up in 1992by husband andwife team, Fredand Gabi Hollow,a couplepassionate abouthelpingcommunitiesunable to copewith painful andvision-threateningeye conditions.They believed that in order for these people to be trulyhelped, they must create an environment and basicinfrastructure to educate and teach the communities totake on the task of eye care for themselves, giving themthe right tools and support to continue their own care forthe long-term. The Fred Hollows Foundation and PacificEye Institute work in coordination with the locals and withdedicated team members, such as Lyndsay, from all overthe world to make their dreams a reality.

As an educator in thissetting, Lyndsay is changingthe lives of Fijiresidents every day.Although Lyndsay neverthought this was where herOptometric education would

honor!

Why would aScholarship helpyou? I have alwayshad the desire to usemy education to giveback to others. Ihave already had theopportunity to giveback throughdomestic andinternational missiontrips. An MCOscholarship wouldlessen the burden ofschool loans andallow me to continuegiving of time andfinances aftergraduation.

Share a FavoriteMemory at MCO: Myfavorite memory isstill an ongoingprocess here atMCO. It is fun toremember the firstweekend when 38individuals cametogether as completestrangers to set outon a trying butrewarding journeytogether. Today,those of us in theMCO Class of 2016are no longer aconglomeration ofstrangers – we havebecome a truefamily!

Contact Info: mailto:raeannnordwall@ferris.edu

Stephanie Ramdass, OD, MS Cornea and Contact Lens Resident at MCO

What have you enjoyed most about yourresidency? I have thoroughly enjoyed the wide variety ofexperiences my residency year has offered, theexpertise I have acquired in specialty contactlens fitting, and the professional relationships Ihave developed along the way.

What are your plans after your residencyexperience?I am looking forward to a career in academia, specifically in aneducational setting that promotes my research endeavors andcontinuously challenges me to remain at the leading edge of theoptometric field.

Want to learn more about Dr. Ramdass and her research?Posters presented at the 2014 GSLS: Prosthetic Lens Fitting MadeEasy as 1-2-3 & Livin' on the Edge.Poster presented at the 2013 AAO: Use of Scleral Lenses in theManagement of Longstanding Paralytic Lagophthalmos. Contact info: stephanieramdass@ferris.edu

MCO Alumni WhoAre American Academy of OptometryFellowsCongratulations to each of you for completing your fellowship!

Class of 1979Dr. John HemmingDr. Suzanne Maystead

take her, she has found thatthis unique and beautifulculture is continually havingan impact on her life and herbeliefs in a very positive way.She truly believes thisexperience has made her

more well-rounded as an eye care professional and sheis happy to have adapted to the slower, more deliberateway of life on theisland. Lindsaysays thatthese residentsdo not let thesmall thingsbother them,because theyknow that in theend, that is notwhat living is trulyabout. This advice rings true to many of us caught up inthe fast pace of life experienced by many of us here inthe United States, and we can all appreciate themessage she happily brings to us all the way from Suva,Fiji. Congratulations Dr. Wynkoop on sharing your talentswith the world!

Proficiency ExaminationEvaluation and Scoringvia Tegrity® Student RecordingBy Dr. J. Randall Vance, Professor

MCO studentsenrolled in theOptometric

Joe MorkMCO Class of 2017Hometown: Mora,MN

UndergraduateSchool & Major: St.John’s University;Biology

Fun Fact: I spent 4months of my lifeplaying varsitybasketball at NelsonMandelaMetropolitanUniversity in PortElizabeth, SouthAfrica as part of astudy abroad trip inundergrad.

Why did you chooseOptometry? I chosethis field of studylargely because ofthe positiveinfluence of myFather, Dr. G. TroyMork, who is himselfan OD. Dr. Morkhas always beenwilling to come in tothe clinic on a

Class of 1980Dr. Patrick KiellaDr. Carol Marston-Foucher

Class of 1981Dr. Robert BuckinghamDr. Leland CarrDr. David DurkeeDr. John MarcinDr. Steven Morris

Class of 1982Dr. Denise BillingsDr. Scott HinkleDr. Mark KosciuszkoDr. Patrick O'Neill

Class of 1983Dr. George Nicolas Jr.Dr. Guy PetitoDr. Michael Radoiu

Class of 1984Dr. Douglas ApseyDr. Robert Foote

Class of 1985Dr. Roberta Felici-CookDr. Cynthia CupalDr. Paul HodgeDr. James R. Miller

Class of 1986Dr. Mary Pat ChelskyDr. Mark DunbarDr. Cheryl Vincent-Riemer

Class of 1987Dr. Carder BurnsDr. Jon Webb

Class of 1988Dr. Elizabeth HoppeDr. Curtis McKennyDr. Joseph Myers

Procedurescourses now usethe Tegrity®StudentRecording featureto initiate theirown recordings inspeciallyequipped testing rooms. Instructors log-in remotely toreview the recordings and score the performanceaccording to the published rubric. Compared to liveproctoring, this system provides greater flexibility inscheduling, and a means for the instructor to alterplayback speed, stop and review. Instructors are able toprovide more accurate and more specific feedback whilereviewing a recording, as compared to evaluating,scoring, and writing feedback in real-time.

Remember those“proficiencies” atthe midterm andend of each ofyour Procedurescourses (whocould forget)?Remember howyou felt with theinstructor sittingin with his or her

clipboard and watching every move you made? Well, westill have practical skill exams, but we have removed atleast one high-anxiety producing aspect of the process.The dedicated Testing Rooms in the Dow Interactive EyeLearning Center are equipped with pan/tilt/zoom camerasand ceiling microphones to capture the “proficiency”performance in detail using the Tegrity® capture system.Using the same system that instructors captureclassroom presentations with, the student doctor logs-inand creates a recording associated with their user ID,which is securely stored on the university’s Tegrityserver. The recording captures everything that appearson the primary display of the computer in the exam room(e.g. the “mini-chart” showing what is on the acuity chartat the end of the room, and the electronic health record

moment’s notice,even on a day off,and when I wasyoung, that wouldsometimes mean hewould bring mealong for the ride. Inthis way, I grew upbeing verycomfortable with theOptometry clinicsetting, and decidedat an early age thatthis was theprofession for me.

Why would aScholarship helpyou? An MCOscholarship would bea great help for me. As an out-of-statestudent fromMinnesota, I have avery long way todrive when goinghome for breaks,and an MCOscholarship wouldhelp offset thosecosts and othersassociated withbeing an out-of-statestudent. As theeldest of 4 kids in myfamily (all of whomare college bound),an MCO scholarshipwould also trickledown to my parents,easing some of thefinancial burden thatcomes with putting 4

Dr. Mark Swan

Class of 1989Dr. Lee PeplinskiDr. Penny Walter

Class of 1990Dr. Stanley HatchDr. Matthew MakiDr. Donald MitchellDr. Karen Sparrow

Class of 1991Dr. John Marohn

Class of 1992Dr. Bryan Karrick

Class of 1993Dr. Stacey Townshend

Class of 1994Dr. Samuel EstesDr. Robert Molter Jr.Dr. Ingryd Vargas-LorenzanaDr. Anthony Wong

Class of 1995Dr. Maggie Mekky MetwalliDr. Robert MolterDr. Anita Palmer-HallDr. Tracey Yothers

Class of 1996Dr. Rodney Smith

Class of 1997Dr. Jason FliegelDr. Amy Crissman-HeadDr. Bhavani IyerDr. Wendy MoyleDr. Traci Seng

Class of 1998Dr. Sharokh KapadiaDr. Jeffrey MichaelsDr. Eric Schweihofer

screen showing the entry of all the examination findings)as well as a view of the student doctor, patient andequipment, and the audio of what is said by the doctorand patient. A unique aspect of the Student Recordingfeature in Tegrity® is that the student can only view thestudent recordings that he or she made, while theinstructors can view all of the student recordings. Soaccess to recordings is automatically controlled by theassigned “role” of the user.

Students areallowed into thededicated TestingRooms about 7-10 days inadvance of“ProficiencyWeek”, so thatthey can becomecomfortable withthe environment, as well as familiarize themselves withthe recording technology, and most importantly, to record“practice runs” of themselves performing the proficiencyexamination. This allows them to review their ownpractice sessions to see what needs correcting, orimproving. When surveyed about how students usedpractice recordings we heard things like: “After I madethe recordings, I reviewed them and they helped meprepare for the real proficiency. I would sit down with thescoring sheet and listen/watch my recording and noteany items that I missed. Then, during the next runthrough, I would be more alert to those areas Imissed/was lacking in. I think they are a great learningtool and everyone should utilize them”. Another reported:”When I reviewed the recordings, I would grade myself…to see if there was anything that I spotted that I missed.Each time I reviewed a recording, there was alwayssomething I noticed that I could improve upon. I wouldthen practice whatever I marked myself off on. I plan toutilize the recordings in the future. I really liked them.” InSpring term 2013 for example, the class of 36 studentsuploaded 114 practice recordings in addition to 72graded recordings.

A preliminary scoring comparison study showed thatscores are very comparable between live-scoring andrecorded-scoring, though the data indicates that scores

children throughcollege.

Share a FavoriteMemory at MCO: Myfavorite memory atMCO thus far wouldbe the ongoingpursuit of nativeMichigan gold beingundertaken by a fewnew friends and I. The hobby ofprospecting hasbeen a great way toget outside for somefresh air and hasalso proven useful infortifying friendshipsand providing uniquetalking points withdisbelievingprofessors.

Erica HugheyMCO Class of 2016Hometown:Vicksburg, MI

UndergraduateSchool & Major:Western MichiganUniversity,Biomedical Sciences

Fun Fact: I loveroad-biking! Someday, I hope to

Class of 1999Dr. David Storer

Class of 2000Dr. Nathan BjorkDr. William Denton

Class of 2001Dr. Douglas CoonDr. Julianne Knowles

Class of 2002Dr. Linda Marks

Class of 2003Dr. Kim BahlDr. Phillip RoelsDr. Dean VanNasdaleDr. Tom Zurakowski

Class of 2004Dr. Joy KernsDr. Josh LotoczkyDr. Kyle Schaub

Class of 2005Dr. Therea ArisDr. Ramanpal DeolDr. Jeffrey KenyonDr. Laura KenyonDr. Joshua MetzgerDr. Kelly PaulettDr. Alissa Proctor

Class of 2006Dr. Matthew AndersonDr. Joseph MyersDr. Roxanna Potter

Class of 2007Dr. Amy DinardoDr. Anupam LaulDr. Ashley Masuga

Class of 2008Dr. Janelle RouthierDr. Paula Thatcher

via recording tended to be the same or slightly lower.Instructors agreed that the ability to alter “real-time” viathe playback speed controls, and to stop and replayallowed them to more accurately verify what was saidand done. Instructors were also able to speed upplayback at certain points without sacrificing accuracy.Overall time spent in reviewing and grading recordingswas approximately the same as for live-proctoring,though not surprisingly, high scorers could be evaluatedsomewhat faster than actual real time, and lower scorerstended to take more time to score accurately.

Next steps: we have added camera systems to the slitlamps, and are beta-testing the Tegrity® system captureof slit lamp-based procedures. We are undertaking amore extensive scoring comparison study, and will alpha-test Tegrity® capture from video BIO. This isfundamentally changing not only the way we evaluatemany of the practical skills that must be demonstrated bythe students, but is fundamentally changing the way thatstudents can prepare and self-assess their readiness.

The Vision Research InstituteTakes its Place at the PodiumBy Leanna Pender, MCO Class of 2016

The Vision Research Institute (VRI) at Ferris StateUniversity’s Michigan College of Optometry is a leapin the right direction for advancing the profession ofOptometry and enhancing the experiences of studentsand staff involved in our ever-changing field. The VRI isdedicated to the production, development and analysis ofnew products and procedures in the field of vision. Withthese products, the VRI wants to maximize the visualpotential for patients and ensure that these products areutilized properly by offering assistance and insight to EyeCare Professionals about these new technologies on themarket. At MCO, the VRI has essentially become animportant avenue for conducting research and obtainingvolunteers to participate in studies with the assistance ofboth internal and external funding.

Although this program has been in the works for yearsamong the professors and adjunct faculty at MCO, the

bike across the stateof Michigan!

What do you lovemost aboutOptometry? I loveoptometry becauseit's so much morethan visioncorrection. Asoptometrists, weplay a key role indiagnosis ofsystemic diseaseand often are frontrunners in detectionof theseabnormalities, suchas diabetes,hypertension ormultiple sclerosis!

Why would aScholarship helpyou? A scholarshipwould help mebecause of the lackof time to generateincome outside ofschool. We areadvised to minimizeour debt as much aspossible by livingfrugally and applyingfor fewer loans, anda scholarship wouldbe a huge blessingfor the busy life of agraduate student.

Share a FavoriteMemory at MCO Myfavorite memory atMCO is the OpticCup, our annual golfouting after finalsare over in the

Class of 2009Dr. Lindsay Basler-WeatherheadDr. Elizabeth BowDr. Adam CarlsonDr. Melanie DentonDr. Richard GuzakDr. Jared LampeDr. Paula McDowellDr. Megan TesterDr. Bradley WrubleDr. Rachael Wruble

Class of 2010Dr. Meagan BakerDr. Erin HitzelburgerDr. Holly HoffmanDr. Jennifer SinclairDr. Sara Weidmayer

Class of 2011Dr. Lyndsey FerrisDr. Annah FoxDr. Troy FoxDr. Rebecca JohnsonDr. Carla Gilbertson

We apologize if any MCO Alum were accidentally excluded from thislist. Please contact us at sarahhinkley@ferris.edu and we willinclude you in the next issue

White Coat Ceremonies Welcome MCOStudents into Clinic

Enthusiastic first year studentsreceived their white clinic coats ata ceremony held in the MCOatrium. Although they will notbegin examining actual patientsuntil this upcoming year, thewhite coat welcomes them intothe profession of optometry.

In January, the second yearstudents received their white

VRI has truly taken flight in the past year. With CraigNorman as the research director and MCO fellow, Dr.Chad Rosen, actively participating and leading researchin the program, the word has gotten out about their goalsas an entity on campus.

At this time, the focus of many projects in the programinvolves contact lenses, and this is largely due to theefforts of Mr. Craig Norman, Dr. Bruce Morgan, Dr.Chad Rosen, Dr. Amy Dinardo, Dr. Josh Lotoczkyand Dr. Stephanie Ramdass, MCO’s current ContactLens Resident. Together, they are actively pursuingresearch in contact lenses due to their personal passionand ambition in the subject matter. However, it is truly acollaborative effort of many faculty members at MCO andthe VRI hopes to expand to more aspects of optometryas it grows and expands to fit the needs of the collegeand the optometric profession.

In recent months, staff members and residents have notbeen the only ones excited about the potential of theVRI. Since the advent of the VRI, there have been anumber of ongoing projects conducted by eager MCOstudents and their overseeing faculty doctors. Forexample, MCO student Trevor Fosso, along with Dr.Dinardo spent the summer 0f 2013 researching factorsrelated to the presbyopic contact lens patient’sperspective of success and specifically what set ofparameters worked for these patients. MCO studentElyse Kleifgen worked in cohesion with the VRI to figureout ways to utilize Google Glass in eye care settings. Andstudents Morgan Schuiteman and Jordan Pinozekworked with the VRI to determine how well genericcontact lenses solutions and their ingredients matchedup to brand name solutions. Although there arenumerous studies in the works, Research Director, CraigNorman, explained that the VRI is always welcome tomore ideas and more products to test, and he would loveto see more students get involved and provide input. Headds that it is not a difficult process to initiate, especiallyif you are passionate about an idea.

In order for a project to be approved, the project outlinemust pass through the FSU Institutional Review Board(IRB) in order to ensure the safety and rights of allparties involved. This includes the participants,researchers, eye care companies and students. Once aprotocol has been set forth for the study, involved faculty

spring. Faculty, staffand students all geta well-deservedbreak from theclassroom to unwindon the golf courseafter a taxing week.

Nick BrunsMCO Class of 2015Hometown: Midland,MI

UndergraduateSchool & Major:Central MichiganUniversity;Biomedical Science

Fun Fact: I am aHUGE Detroit sportsfan... Particularly theTigers and Lions.

Why did you chooseOptometry? Thevisual system isfascinating to meand I've always beena bit of a sciencenerd. Combining thetwo along with theopportunity to helppeople with theirmost valuable senselead me to thisexciting field.

coats for clinical use at aceremony held at the Holiday InnConference Center. Deans Dr.David Durkee and Dr. DavidDamari led the ceremony which

featuredMOApresident,Dr. GregFord, asguestspeaker.There weremanyfamily andfriends ofthestudents inattendance

as well as the MCO faculty.

MCO Good NewsDr. Paula McDowell's article on the MCO Pediatric Residencywas featured in Visual Performance Today. The link ishttp://viewer.zmags.com/publication/1fb883ad#/1fb883ad/41.Michigan College of Optometry is extremely well representedthroughout this magazine.Dr. Sarah Hinkley is the recipient of a Michigan CampusCompact Faculty/Staff Community Service Learning Award forthe Students in Need of Eyecare program with MesickConsolidated Schools.4th year student, Steve Smith is GP Lens Institute Rising Stars“Case of the Quarter” for the third quarter of 2013 for his case onbitoric contact lenses.

and student interns will then closely follow the testingprotocol. This ensures that accuracy and reliability of alltests conducted under the supervision of the VRI.

As you may be aware, volunteers and participants arecrucial to the advancement of research and technologyand they are always in demand at the VRI. In order tobecome part of this program as either a contributor toresearch, as a participant in one of the many studiesavailable at this time or to refer a patient, visit the VRIinformational page on the MCO webpage and fill out arecruitment form. Professional treatment is provided bythe talented staff at MCO to participants of each study aswell as potential financial payment or the use of new andfree products following the completion of the study.

PicturedfromLeft:Craig

Norman, Bruce Morgan, O.D., Stephanie Ramdass, O.D., AmyDinardo, O.D., Chad Rosen, O.D., Josh Lotoczky; Not pictured: James Brady

http://www.ferris.edu/HTMLS/colleges/michopt/vision-research-institute/

MCOAA Board Member Spotlight,Aimee Bronson, O.D.

Why would aScholarship helpyou? Student loandebt is a big deal formany students. Withthe help ofscholarships,reducing themassive pile ofaccumulated debtevery little bit helpsbring that stressdown and will allowme to focus more onproviding excellentcare to my futurepatients.

Share a FavoriteMemory atMCO: Traveling outto San Diego for theannual AOSAmeeting. It was agreat time to bondwith classmates andmeet fellowoptometry studentsfrom schools acrossthe country.

December 6-9, 2013 Jamie Brady participated in a meeting inSpringfield, VA with the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) todetermine the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary toachieve the certification of "master optician". The ABO is thenational organization which certifies opticians.Congrats to Dr. John Pole who received the MOA educator ofthe year award! Also, congrats to Thomas Hubbard: Student ofthe Year!MCO and the VRI made waves at the Global Contact LensSymposium this year in Las Vegas:

Dr. Amy Dinardo presented her research at a free paperlecture entitled "Common Factors in Multifocal LensSuccess". This research was based on work done byTrevor Fosso, Bob Buckingham, Craig Norman, BruceMorgan, and Andrea Sewell.Drs. Josh Lotoczky and Chad Rosen as well as RhondaAtteberry, Craig Norman and Stephanie Ramdass wonan award for their poster, "Livin' On the EdgeDr. Josh Lotoczky presented two lectures regarding "TheEmpirical Fitting of Scleral Lenses."Dr. Chad Rosen presented a general session lecture on"Understanding the Scleral Shape."Dr. Amy Dinardo, Jordan Pinozek, Morgan Schuiteman,and Craig Norman presented a scientific poster "AnAnalysis of Private Label Contact Lens Solutions."Dr. Amy Dinardo, Josh Lotoczky, Chad Rosen, BobBuckingham, and students Alison Middleton and AlyssaSpalding presented a scientific poster entitled "Introducinga Scleral Lens Fit Assessment Guide based on Tear LayerThickness."Drs. Stephanie Ramdass and Josh Lotoczky presenteda scientific poster "Prosthetic Fitting: As Easy as 1,2,3."Drs. Chad Rosen, Joe Pole and Josh Lotoczky andTrevor Fosso, Rhonda Lafata,and Craig Normanpresented a scientific poster "Finding NIMO:An Analysis ofGP Lens Multifocals."Cory Grifka and Doug Herriott presented a scientificposter "Graft-versus-Host disease and Filtering Blebs."Brett Arnold presented a scientific poster with DougHerriott and Julie Anderson entitled "Ocular GVHD alonga LASIK flap."

My name is Aimee Bronsonand I am 1999 graduate ofMCO. I worked atCoopersville Vision Centerfor almost 12 years and lastAugust became owner of thepractice! In addition to theMCO Alumni board, I am theMOA Awards Committeechair, an active member ofthe WMOA, adjunct clinicfaculty at MCO and I havebeen on 7 VOSH missions.

I have been an MCO Alumni board member for 5 yearsnow and I enjoy it because it gives me a chance toreconnect with old friends, meet new faces and helpcurrent students throughscholarships andfundraising. Looking back,I have realized that MCOhas played such animportant part in formingwho I am today and it isnice to give back. I‘vealways looked at MCO as a place where I not onlyreceived a great education and learned my professionbut also met some great life-long friends and made manymemories. I currently live in Allendale, MI with myhusband, Todd, two boys Luke (7) and Max (4), and ourdog Haley. In my spare time, I enjoy running, golfing,gardening and travel.

How to Support MCOWe are very appreciative of the support received fromour alumni and friends. Our current fundraising need ofhighest priority is student scholarships. Please considerdonating to one of our scholarship funds at a level of

Evan AndrewsMCO Class of 2017Hometown:Kalamazoo, MI.

UndergraduateSchool & Major:Western MichiganUniversity; BS inBiomedical Sciencewith minors inTheatre andChemistry.

Fun Fact: A lot of myoriginal training andeducation wasactually in theatreand performance.I've managed tocombine thatexperience and mylove of science into ajob teaching summerclasses at theKalamazoo AreaMath & ScienceCenter for the last 10years.

Why did you chooseOptometry? Thereason I enteredoptometry – as wellas my favoriteaspect of theprofession – is thatit's health care on avery personal level.

All of the posters can be found here:http://www.pentavisionevents.com/event.aspx?eid=4

Dr. Sarah Hinkley served as an academic poster reviewer forthe American Optometric Association's Optometry's Meeting.On January 24th and 25th, MCO hosted the annual "MichiganVision Therapy Study Group." Over 60 ODs, therapists,residents, and students met for a day and a half of CE on thetopic of vision therapy. This years theme topic was TraumaticBrain Injury.On January 31st, MCO held the "White Coat Ceremony" for oursecond year class at the Holiday Inn. Congratulations to ournewest set of interns, who are now credentialed to see patientsin our clinic.Dr. Sarah Hinkley is the recipient of the "Visionary of the Year"award from the Grand Rapids Lions Club Blind Dinner DateSelection Committee. The Visionary of the Year is awarded tothose who have made distinguished contributions in theirmedical/professional careers by significant volunteer activitiesthat have enriched the lives of those living with vision loss. Thisaward will be presented at the upcoming 9th annual Lions BlindDinner Date! The event was held on Thursday, March 6th at theGOEI Center in Grand Rapids.Dr. Sarah Hinkley has been nominated for the AmericanCouncil on Education (ACE) Women's Network MichiganDistinguished Woman in Higher Education Leadership Award forFSU. This award was created to recognize and honor thoseindividuals who have distinguished themselves by providingoutstanding leadership to women in their institutions, in theirprofession, and in society-at-large.Dr. Hinkley, fourth year student Andrew Wilke, Association forthe Blind and Visually Impaired partner Kathy Konow and apatient were interviewed on the "Maranda; Where You Live"program for WOTV that aired in February. The segmenthighlighted the work of the University Eye Center's VisionRehabilitation Service and its partnership with the Association forthe Blind and Visually Impaired in student education and patientcare. http://wotv4women.com/2014/02/07/helping-west-michigan-see/Dr. Jim Miller participated in the American OptometricAssociation's Mid-Year Volunteer Meeting February 7-8, 2014 inSt. Louis, MO. The AOA funded almost 150 optometrists from allover the U.S. to encourage the efforts of about 36 committees.Dr. Miller serves on the AOA Ethics and Values Committee.MCO student, Vision Research Director and Fellow and facultywere featured on TV 9 and 10 news for Google glasses. Check

giving in which you feel comfortable. Online donationscan be made here:

https://ebill.ferris.edu/C20079_ustores/web/store_cat.jsp?STOREID=4&CATID=22

Drs. Pole Named Professors of theYear by Class of 2017 & 2016Congratulations to the Pole family in receiving MOSAStudent Professor choice awards, as chosen by theClasses of 2016 and 2017. We are proud to have such agreat staff and family on our team.

Dr. Joe Pole received hisnomination from the 1st yearclass, after his very first year ofteaching Optics! We are happyto see him proudly fill the shoesof our loved optics guru, Dr.Keating.

Dr. John Pole received hisnomination from the 2nd yearclass. He really knows how toconnect with his students andinspire them to be their best!

Newly Appointed MCO Alumnae onFSU Boards

Congratulations to Dr.

Interactions withpatients extendbeyond five minutesof questions and achart. While I wasshadowing variousdoctors (many ofwhich were MCOgraduates) I wassurprised by therelationships andconnection they hadwith their patientsand that wasprobably themoment I decidedthat optometry wasexactly what Iwanted to do.

Why Would aScholarship helpyou? Perhaps thebiggest burden I faceis financial, muchlike any otherstudent.Extracurricularopportunities likeresearch andprofessional events,as beneficial as theywould be, have to berun through thebudget filter beforeanything else. Ascholarship would dowonders to alleviatethat stress and allowme to focus on whatis really important:preparing myself togive the best patientcare I can.

Share a FavoriteMemory at

out this great video!http://www.9and10news.com/story/24768695/special-report-google-glass-growing-by-stormDr. Sarah Hinkley is featured in a FSU Bulldog Story.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPBAcJRhWowThe "Save Your Vision" Reading Event held at the Tot's Place atFerris included Mrs. Patsy Eisler and Mrs. Rita Damari whowere the guest readers. Dr. Dave Durkee also spoke to thestudents about vision care. There was a mini "White Coat"presentation that included three children's white coats with"Future Optometrists" and "University Eye Center" on the frontpocket. Other items donated to Tot's place were eye charts andeye patches.A project performed by Dr. Chad Rosen, Dr. Josh Lotoczkyand second year optometry student Trevor Fosso at MCO’sVision Research Institute involving comparative measurementsof aspheric multifocal gas permeable lenses was featured inCraig Norman’s Prescribing for Presbyopia column in the Marchissue of Contact Lens Spectrum.http://www.clspectrum.com/articleviewer.aspx?articleID=109925Fourth year student, Adeline Bauer, was chosen as the newCornea and Contact Lens Resident for the 2014-2015 year.Fourth year student, Cynthia Brown, was chosen as the newPediatric Resident for the 2014-2015 year.Dr. Amy Dinardo and Craig Norman will be lecturing at theAmerican Academy of Optometry Meeting in November 2014.Their lecture is entitled “Solving the Presbyopia Puzzle: 5 Tips ofMultifocal Lens Success.”Dr. Chad Rosen and Dr. Joshua Lotoczky will be lecturing atthe American Academy of Optometry Meeting in November2014. Their lecture is entitled “Analysis of Ocular Measurementsand Scleral Lens Fitting Techniques."Dr. Amy Dinardo was chosen to be a member of theCredentialing Committee for Opticare Managed Vision.On Friday, March 21, MCO Dean David Damari presented to

Barbara Horn who wasappointed to the FerrisFoundation Board ofDirectors!

Another congratulations to Dr. Emily Coles who wasappointed to the Ferris Alumni Association Board inaddition to her current involvement on the MCO AlumniAssociation Board.

We are fortunate to have these two outstanding womenrepresenting MCO and FSU.

MCO Seeking Submissions forAlumni Speakers BureauWould you like an opportunity to share your knowledgeof a particular optometric or business related subject withour MCO students? Your chance has arrived! The MCOAlumni Speakers Bureau invites presentationsubmissions on the topic of your choice. Visit our website at http://www.ferris.edu/ and then click on "Alumni" tofind submission information and to upload your outlineand presentation. A faculty committee will review allsubmissions to decide if they are suitable within theconfines of our curriculum. Even if the presentation isnot a good fit for a particular course, it may be offered asa lunch or dinner presentation. Although submissiondoes not guarantee acceptance, MCO faculty are eagerto review presentations. Our students are eager to hearfrom alumni outside of our faculty and this is a greatopportunity to connect with students while building yourcurriculum vitae.

MCO: Withoutquestion my favoritetime so far at MCOhas been the annualMichigan OptometricAssociation meeting.It was eye-openingto interact with thewide variety ofpractitioners here inthis state and hearabout theirexperiences. Thatand the cheesypotatoes wereexcellent.

Annie MillerMCO Class of 2015Hometown: Norway,MI.

UndergraduateSchool & Major:Ferris StateUniversity, VisionScience Major

the joint Board of Directors of the American OptometricAssociation and the Association of Schools and Colleges ofOptometry on “Maintenance of Certification in Healthcare.”Dr. Amy Dinardo was chosen to be the Regional Vice-Chair forthe American Academy of Optometry’s Admittance Committee.Dr. Chad Rosen lectured for four hours at Walman University inSeattle, Washington, on March 15 on the following topics:Contact Lens Care and Patient Education, Hot Topics in ContactLenses, and An Introduction to Scleral Lenses.Dr. Bob Buckingham hosted the University of Michigan – FlintPre-Optometry Club on Saturday, March 15. The pre-optometrystudents learned about the Michigan College of Optometry(MCO), the new facilities, applying to MCO as well as a tour ofthe facility.Jamie Brady lectured to the Michigan Opticians AssociationSaturday March 8, 2014 in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Jamie’slectures offered opticians six hours of continuing education.On Thursday, March 20, Dr. Bob Buckingham lectured atGrand Valley State University as part of the West MichiganInterprofessional Education Initiative. Dr. Buckingham’s topicwas “Success in School.”Jamie Brady was elected to the Opticians Association ofMichigan as a board member for a two year term.Tracy Dard lectured for eight hours at the Opticians Associationof Michigan Spring Convention on March 8th and 9th on topicspreparing participants to take the American Board of Opticianrynational exam. Michigan holds the nation’s highest pass rate fortwo consecutive years.Dr. Sarah Hinkley received a FSU Exceptional Merit Granttotaling $4000 to support continued clinical partnershipsbetween the University Eye Center and Association of the Blindand Visually Impaired. $2000 of that funding will be paid to ABVIover the course of the year beginning in June 2014 through April2015. The remaining $2000 will be utilized by UEC to offsetsome of the costs in lost patient revenues and travel expensesfor the home visits.Dr. Sarah Hinkley received word that the Students in Need ofEyecare (SINE) program has been approved for a $7500 FSUExceptional Merit Grant in order to continue and expand theprogram. The funding will allow University Eye Center toconsider additional SINE opportunities. Projects beingconsidered: working closely on a potential MOISD SpecialNeeds partnership for this summer and possibly a localelementary school program for the fall in addition to the Mesickprogram.Dr. Dean Luplow presented at the "Best Practices"Interprofessional Education conference, the first of its kind at

Food, Beverages, Eye Exams andPrizes, Oh My

We are excited to offer three great opportunities toconnect with colleagues, MCO faculty, students andemeriti on us! Join us for one of the events listed below.You won't be sorry you attended.

Desserts, Dilations and Donations for theFuture, Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at theUniversity Eye Center: This innaugural eventgives you the opportunity to recieve acomprehensive, dilated eye examination with one ofour third year students and attending faculty for amere donation to our scholarship fund (suggesteddonation is at least $20). Exam appointment slotsare at 5 PM and 7 PM. In addition to your eyeexam, desserts and coffee will be provided. C'mon,you know you've neglected your OWN EYES! Youwill still have time to visit the MCO reception beforeor after your exam.

MCO Reception, Wednesday, June 11, 2014 atthe Holiday Inn Conference Center ImmediatelyFollowing CE: This popular reception will featurelarge scale attendance of colleagues and friends,faculty and student attendance and visits from MCODeans. In addition, MCO emeriti are invited and willbe honored. Maybe we can talk Dr. Carter and Dr.Keating into coming if we tell them about the greatselection of heavy hors d'oeuvres, beverages and acash bar. In addition, we will be giving away manygreat prizes including a free registration for nextyear's CE.

MCO Alumni and Friends Reception, Friday,June 27, 2014 at Optometry's Meeting,Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, Room 408-409from 5:30 - 7:30 PM: It has been awhile since we

Fun Fact: A fun factabout me is that myfavorite part aboutwinter is wearingslippers in thehouse! I love to beable to study and becozy.

What do you lovemost aboutOptometry? I loveOptometry becauseit allows me to dosomething that I ampassionate but stillallows me to have afamily.

Why Would aScholarship helpyou? An MCOscholarship wouldhelp me because itwould help myfuture. It would allowthe debt load tolessen just a little bitso that my futurewon't look sodaunting. Any littlebit is that much morethat I won't have torepay with interestand that would allowme to not be afraidof taking a job that Ilove, but pays less.

Share a FavoriteMemory at MCO Myfavorite memory atMCO was thesummer aftersecond year whenwe still had classes.Summer classes

FSU.On Friday, April 25th, MCO held its 15th annual Residency DayGrand Rounds. The eleven residents affiliated with MCOpresented on advanced topics related to their particular field ofinterest to the 3rd year MCO students and faculty. This eventserves as a platform for residents to develop their scholarshipand presentation skills and also educating the students on whatit means to choose residency training moving forward.Dean David Damari just returned from a 4-day trip to Korea,where he spoke at the DIOPS Global Optometry Congress inDaegu. Dean Damari presented at two talks, one as arepresentative of COVD at the opening summit on the state ofoptometry in Asia and America and then a four-hourlecture/workshop on basics of vision therapy. All the while, DeanDamari was graciously hosted by an MCO alumnus, Dr. Manho(Brandon) Jang, who is a very well-respected optometrist inKorea and throughout Asia.On April 27 – 29, Dean Damari with a contingent of studentsand other Michigan optometrists attended the AOA AdvocacyConference being held in Washington D. C. MCO studentsattending: Samantha Fordyce, Chelsie Rupp, Sara Nonhof,Christine Mekhayel, Brian Tatsak, Michael Seebruck, andRoss DuMonthier.In cooperation with the Michigan Optometric Association, DeanDamari arranged a visit by members of the Health Care Policycommittee of the Michigan State House of Representatives onMay 2. The Committee had lunch in the private dining room ofthe Rock and were impressed by tours of MCO. Faculty, Staff,and students greeted these representatives and demonstratedwhat a great investment this building and this College is forMichigan taxpayers.Dr. Amy Dinardo earned a promotion to Associate Professoreffective July 1st. Congratulations Dr. Dinardo.Dr. Sarah Hinkley earned a promotion to the rank of Professoreffective July 1st. Congratulations Dr. Hinkley.MCO First year students Gabrielle Smiley and Evan Andrewswere awarded Summer Research Fellowships. They will both beworking on contact lens-related research with Dr. Amy Dinardoand the entire Vision Research Institute team.Drs. Doug Coon, Amy Dinardo, and Joy Kerns will publish anarticle in the June issue of Review of Optometry, “ModernApproaches to the Diagnosis and Treatment of theVitreomacular Interface.”Dr. Bob Buckingham hosted the Hope College Pre-OptometryClub on Saturday, April 5 and the University of Michigan AnnArbor Pre-Optometry Club on Saturday, April 12. The Pre-optometry students learned about the Michigan College of

have hosted a reception at Optometry'sMeeting and we felt the time was right to reinstateour reception. Join us for wonderful hors d'oeuvres,give away prizes and a hosted bar. We are soexcited to connect with our alumni and friends fromall over the United States.

Share Your Information So We CanShare It with Your MCO FamilyThe only way we know what is going on in your life is ifyou TELL US! Your colleagues and friends are anxiousto hear about your life now such as your place and modeof practice, your family, your hobbies and your MCOmemories. We have provided a template of questions toguide you or you can create your own. Submit yourinformation via email to sarahhinkley@ferris.edu or onsocial media messaging. Submitting gives us the right topublish your info in our newsletter or on our web site orsocial media sites.

Alumni and Friends BiographicalInformation Submission Form We would love to know…

What was your MCO graduation year?

Where do you live/practice?

What is your practice mode?

What are your favorite pieces of information to sharefrom your personal life? Spouse? Children?

What are your hobbies or interests outside of optometry?

What is your involvement with the profession ofoptometry and/or optometric organizations?

What was your favorite part of attending MCO?

What was your favorite memory from your time at MCO?

aren't that much funand in the middle ofit, while we were allstressed out andneeded a break, wehad a class bonfire!It was so much fun.Guitars, starwatching, backyardgames, smores, andfun stories! Justwhat we needed andlots of bonding.

Neil Patel MCO Class of 2016Hometown:Northville, MI

UndergraduateSchool & Major:Ferris StateUniversity with amajor in Biology

Fun Fact: I’vetraveled to 30countries in my 24years of life.

What do you lovemost aboutOptometry? I reallylove the intimacythat the doctors’share with theirpatients coupledwith the dynamicnature of the field

Optometry (MCO), the new facilities, applying to MCO as well asthey toured the facility. The Northern Michigan University Pre-Optometry Club visited MCO on Friday, April 25.Drs. Jim Miller and Bob Buckingham participated in theAssociation of Schools and Colleges of Optometry Virtual OpenHouse on Thursday, April 17, 2014. Dr. Miller and Dr.Buckingham were in the "Chat Room" from Noon until 8 pm.During that time, MCO had 35 visitors to our Chat Room. Of the35 visitors, we had 98 questions. In answering those 98questions, Drs. Miller and Buckingham had 149 posts to theMCO chat room. Dr. Miller and Dr. Buckingham both felt it was avery successful event.On Wednesday, April 2nd, MCO was visited by a group of 70third graders from White Cloud. The students toured the campusof Ferris State for a field trip, and ended at the University EyeCenter for demonstrations on eye anatomy, binocular vision, andrefractions. Volunteers included Drs. Jim Miller, Mark Swan,Paula McDowell, Sarah Hinkley, and RaeAnn Nordwall, aswell as students Andrew Wilke, Addie Bauer, SamanthaFordyce, Angie Conley, and Chelsie Rupp.On March 29th and 30th Tracy Dard lectured in Columbus, Ohiofor the Optician’s Association of Ohio on topics preparingattendees for the ABO national exam.Tracy Dard will be consulting with the Pennsylvania College ofOptometry’s Scholars Program Optical Clerkship in May.Dr. Wrubel hosted the VOSH-MI spring meeting at MCO inApril.Dr. Miller promoted MCO at FSU's Dawg Days in April.

Do You Have Changes?

If you have had a change in your email address, home address, workplace address or any other contact information, please update it athttp://www.ferrisalumni.org/ or by sending an email to SarahHinkley at sarahhinkley@ferris.edu. This information allows us tocontinue communications such as this newsletter and will keep youinformed.

Where Are They Now?Dr. John Gaffka is now in Whitelake. He got married lastNovember.Dr. Tony Mullins is opening a business for servicing nursing

Why would you recommend MCO to a pre-optometrystudent?

Dr. Damari Featured on TVProgramOur very own Dean, Dr. Damari, was featured on theFSU television program, "It's Academic" this month. Theshow highlights community service learning projectsundertaken by the faculty and students in the threehealthcare colleges on campus, the College of HealthProfessions, the College of Pharmacy and the MichiganCollege of Optometry. Be sure to check out this greatvideo.

It's Academic: Dr. Damari Interview

MCO Optic Cup 2014UnFOREgettable

Despite this cold,wet springorganizers of the2014 Optic Cupbreathed sighs ofrelief as theweather turnedout to be perfect.The event, whichwas organized byOptometryStudentGovernment, hadan amazingturnout ofstudents, faculty,staff, supportersandadministrators.The variety ofteam names thisyear was secondto none with

and the potential forinnovation.

Why Would aScholarship helpyou? A scholarshipwould certainly helppay for the risingcost of requiredtextbooks andequipment.

Share a FavoriteMemory atMCO One of myfavorite memories atMCO was when wesent Dr. Keating toHawaii! He hasexperienced a nastyfall in our classroomand jokingly askedour class to collectour change and gethim on a plane toHawaii. When Dr.Keating walked in forlecture the nextmorning, the entire1st year classroomwas decorated in anisland theme,complete with treatsand Dr. Keating’sfamous bottle of Dr.Pepper. I am veryhappy to have seenDr. Keatingexperience thatspecial moment.

homes.Dr. Gregory Herbart (Class of 1985) is with Henry FordOptimEyes in Roseville. According to Dr. Herbart, “It’s thebusiest office in the US!”Dr. Martin Faber (Class of 1983) is in Dallas, Texas at the Key-Whitman Eye Center.Dr. Liz Tremblay is practicing in Gaylord, MI and now hasa baby girl.Dr. Tommasina Pasqua recently sold a practice to a colleaguein East Tawas. She recently hired a new MCO grad, Dr. BenDietrich, as an associate for Harrisville Eye Care.Dr. Sandy Doud (Class of 1987) is practicing in Ann ArborHuron Ophthalmology, she has been there for 25 years. She has3 daughters. Daughters Lauren and Shannia are at the MSUCollege of Osteopathic Medicine and Tara is in the Nursingprogram at Aquinas College.

MCO Hoods and Graduates Class of 2014

Friday, May 9 was a momentous occasion for the Class of 2014, their

creative namessuch as the "ForeEyes," "TheDimpled Balls"and "I Like BigPutts and ICannot Lie."Although it istough to admit,the winning teamof Drs. Lotoczky,Morgan, Joe Pole,Rosen andBrendan Doylecame out on top.Special thanks tosecond yearstudents MichaelDeWit and Emily

Sanford who spent many hours planning andadministering the event. We also thank our sponsorsEssilor, Art Optical, FSU Eye Center, MichiganOptometric Association, Walman Instrument Group,Pioneer International, Zeiss and Ann Arbor T-ShirtCompany for their financial support and attendance. Welook forward to involving our Alumni Association Board inthe event next year!

MOSPPA Hosts Private PracticeConferenceThe Michigan Optometric Student Private PracticeAssociation group hosted the Great Lakes PrivatePractice Conference on April 5, 2014 with a theme of"Trasitioning In and Out of Private Practice." The eventwas very well attended by both doctors and students. Dr.Al Cleinman spoke about "The Art of the Deal" followedby a doctor and student meet and greet. Then Dr. Mile

LindsayKleinschmitMCO Class of 2017Hometown: ShelbyTwp., MI

UndergraduateSchool & Major:Ferris StateUniversity, Biology

Fun Fact: Horsebackriding is my favoriteway to relax.

Why did you chooseOptometry? Thereare many reasonsthat I choseOptometry as myprofession.Personally, I foundthat eyes areincredibly interestingto learn about, and Iknow that with thiscareer choice, I willbe able to make animpact on people’slives.

Why Would aScholarship helpyou? As we allknow, optometryschool is quiteexpensive, and thecost of attendance isonly going up, so a

family and friends and the MCO faculty, staff and adminstration whosupported them. In a beautiful ceremony, each student was hooded atWilliams Auditorium. MCO Alumna Dr. Elizabeth Hoppe spoke to thegraduates about keeping promises to themselves, their families andthe profession. After the hooding, MCO hosted a large reception at theHoliday Inn Conference Center. On Saturday, May 10, the Class of2014 officially graduated from Ferris State University in a ceremony atthe Convocation Center (Wink Arena).

Congratulations Class of 2014, You Make UsProud!

MCO Alumni Spotlight

Paul Anton Hodge, O.D., F.A.A.O. MCO Class of 1985

Dr. Hodge graduated in 1985 from what is nowthe Michigan College of Optometry. OnFebruary 1st, 1989, he opened his own privatepractice, Allegan Eyecare in Allegan, Michigan.Today, Dr. Hodge practices with associates,Dr. Dale Wittkop and Dr. Amanda Hodge. In

2000, he was awarded Fellowship in the American Academy ofOptometry. In 2011, he became Diplomate of the American Board ofOptometry, and maintains his membership in the AmericanOptometric Association, Michigan Optometric Association andSouthwest Michigan Optometric Society since graduation. Dr. Hodgewill serving as president of the Michigan Optometric Association inMay of 2014. He has been married for 30 years to Vicki Lynn Hodge,RPh and has two adult children, Amanda Hodge, OD and ChristopherHodge, DC. He enjoys traveling, golf and spending time with family.

Ray Greene, O.D.MCO Class of 1988

Dr. Ray Greene owns his own privatepractice in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho and hasbeen practicing in Coeur d' Alene, which issimilar to Traverse City but only a bit larger

Brujic spoke about finding the right optometrist for yourpractice. After lunch, an engaging panel discussioninvolved the audience and featured Drs. Gregory Ford,Brian Hales, Robert Molter and Janelle Routhier.

Special thanks to VSP, Essilor, Harbor Optical andToledo Optical for sponsoring the conference. Ourstudents and the doctors who attended gained manyinsights and were delighted with the education andnetworking.

Outerwear and Clothing Sale aSuccess

Thank you to our alumni and friends who purchasedAntigua outerwear from our outerwear and clothing sale.The items were very high quality with our multi-colored,embroidered logo. We were able to raise approximately$500. All proceeds from the sale benefit our studentscholarship fund. Sample items will be displayed at ourupcoming MCO reception at the summer CE in June andat the MOA Fall Seminar. We are initiating an onlineordering system which we hope to have in place for ournext sale in the fall. Please watch your email for futurefundraising sale information.

Did You Know?

scholarship woulddefinitely help offsetthe cost of tuition.

Share a FavoriteMemory at MCO Iwas able to attendmy first Eye Ball thisyear, which was aTON of fun, and itturned out to be agreat way to bondwith our classmates.

MCO HiresNew Faculty

Beginning in June, afamiliar face willreturn to MCO as afaculty member.Alumna and formerPediatrics andBinocular VisionResident Dr. Sarah(Pavlik) Bush joinsthe faculty as a keypart of the PrimaryCare Service. Inaddition, Dr. Bushwill be involved inlectures, laboratoriesand the Pediatricand Binocular VisionService along with ahost of otherresponsibilities

with bigger hills, since 1991. He purchased the office after havingworked in Huntington Beach, California for three years followinggraduation. He still practices on his own with 6 employees and amotto of not working too many hours, and does not let work get in theway of having fun skiing and golfing. He is the immediate pastpresident of the Idaho Optometric Physicians Association, pastpresident of the Idaho Panhandle Kiwanis, current board of director forthe Idaho Practitioners' Association and this year he will be nominatedby the Governor to the Idaho Optometric Board of Regulators. InDecember of 2014, he will be married to his fiance, Melanie. Dr.Greene has three stepdaughters, two step granddaughters ,who are 4and 15 months old, and two dogs and two cats. During his time atMCO, he truly enjoyed the camaraderie between students andinstructors and he adds that some of his fondest memories were madevisiting the local watering holes with them. He truly believes MCOprepared me well for the rigors of private practice. He adds that he isincredibly grateful to have chosen this profession which has allowedhim to care for patients, have plenty of time for family and fun, and ontop of that, according to the government, enjoy an income in the top2%.

Kamaria SerflingMCO Class of 2011

Dr. Serfling moved to Rapid City, SD. She is practicing with RapidCity Eye Care, which is owned by Drs. Dave and Jess Czerny. Sheis working at their locations next to LensCrafters and next toJCPenneys in the Rushmore Mall. She has absolutely loved thechange of pace after spending a year in a private practice setting.

Her husband, Jason, is working for Butler Caterpillar Machinery as adiesel techinician. Daughter Savanna is now 4 years old and hasstarted taking Gymnastics, which she absolutely loves. She is alsonow a big sister and adores her baby sister. Bailey Lynn was bornJune 19th, 2012 and is a happy, healthy girl!

Did You Know...Our University Eye Center andlaboratories have multiple SanetVision Integrators. This cutting edge,touch screen technology is one ofthe latest advancements in visiontherapy. We are thankful that our

MCO students graduate with one of the lowest amount ofindebtedness of all optometry schools in the US? Thisfact is a great recruiting tool for our program.

MCO Faculty Professor Highlight -Jamie BradyInterview conducted by Leanna Pender, Class of 2016

How long have you been involvedwith Optometry? - I have been in the optometricindustry for 33 years, and I haveworked specifically at Ferris since1996 in the Opticianry program until itclosed, and then in 2002, I was hiredat MCO.

What set you on your way tobecoming an Optician? - I am from Dearborn originally, and as a student out ofhigh school, I toured Ferris and right away found aninterest in the Opticianry program offered at the time, andI’ve been in the industry ever since.

What do you enjoy most about this field? - I enjoy this environment because it gives me anopportunity to be involved with more than the commonsmall prescription myope and hyperope. Nowadays, Ireally like to see the funky, hard stuff, and I love thechallenge of fitting patients with specialty eyewear,mounting scopes, and making specialty lenses.

Can you share a favorite memory you've had at MCOover the years? - I would have to say that a favorite memory I have is ourmove to the new building. I am happy that this buildingfinally looks like and functions like the medical facility it isand always has been.

Do you have any words of wisdom/advice you would liketo pass on to the students and alumni? - When my students leave MCO and enter their ownbusinesses and modes of practices, my advice for themwould be to be sure to hire a good optician and pay them

important tomaintaining the highquality of ourprogram. She hasserved as an integralpart of the optometryprogram atMassachusettsCollege of Pharmacyand Health Sciencesin its beginningphases and brings agreat deal ofteaching andcourse/labdevelopmentexperience. We arethrilled to welcomeDr. Bush. Be sure towelcome her whenyou see her next!

NewsletterCredits Special thanks tothird year MCOstudent LeannaPender for hercontributions to theproduction of thisnewsletter.

Pediatric and Binocular Vision aswell as Vision Therapy Services arevery busy, providing our students acomprehensive experience in these

optometric areas. If you are in the area, please call to set up a tour.We would love to show you our amazing new facility.

Our University Eye Center VisionRehabilitation Service provides ahome environment room suitable forfunctional assessments of visiondifficulties. The room features astove/oven, microwave, refridgeratorsimulation, television, washer, dryerand sinks. Clinical interns have fulluse of this exciting space withpatients and it has helped to foster arelationship with the Association for

the Blind and Visually Impaired who share the space, providingrehabilitaiton services to our patients at UEC and in the home.

enough so they can have pride and a comfortable life.

What kind of hobbies do you have outside of Eyeballs? - I am actually a car guy and I have some cool old cars. Ihave 3 Willy’s Jeeps ranging in years from 1946 CJ-2A,1957 FC-150 & a 1964 CJ-5. I have a couple of vintagemuscle cars as well. A 1969 big block convertibleMercury Cougar which is ironically “the first convertibleCougar ever made”. It is actually a pre-production car.These vehicles were usually crushed by themanufacturer, however, somehow this one escaped thatdemise. And finally a very sweet 1973 AMC Javelin AMX.

Ferris State University Alumni RelationsPrakken 101, 420 Oak Street

Big Rapids, MI 49307Toll-free: 888.378.3647alumni_office@ferris.edu

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