Indiana Optometric Association

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IOA honors Optometric leaders
May 3rd 2011 -

Optometrist of the Year – Dr. James E. Hunter

 

Dr. Hunter has served Optometry for over 30 years and has been a driving force in the State of Indiana for defining parameters in the scope of practice. Dr. Hunter is a previous, multiple award winner for his devotion to the profession in many areas.  He served on the faculty at the Indiana University School of Optometry and was also very involved in the establishment of the Indianapolis Eye Care Center. From 1984 to 1989 Jim served on the board of the Indiana Optometric Association. He continues providing expertise in his current role as a member of the Indiana Board of Optometry. Dr. Hunter resides in Trafalgar and practices in Indianapolis.

 

President’s Citation – Dr. Chris J. Browning

 

Dr. Chris Browning personifies the definition of Young Optometrist of the Year.

Chris had dedicated himself to the profession with time and energy. He is active in the Central Society, has served on the legislative committee and has now taken on the role of convention chairman for the I-O-A. Even before graduating from  IUSO in 2002, Dr. Browning worked summers and breaks as an optician. His colleagues describe Chris as highly professional, generous and community oriented. Dr. Browning lives and practices on the far south side of Indianapolis.

 

Distinguished Service Award – Dr. Robert W. Moses

 

The distinguished service award is presented to an IOA member for long term service to the profession of Optometry - within the association or for an outstanding, ongoing, record of achievement. Dr. Moses is a tireless warrior for the profession’s cause. He devotes countless hours to researching critical issues including Medicaid and Medicare. Dr. Moses is also a former I-O-A president and the recipient of multiple awards. Along with his son Robert and daughter Jennifer, Bob practices in Northwest Indiana.

 

Outstanding Service in the Public Interest – State Representative Craig Fry

 

Representative Craig Fry has been a good friend to Optometry in both his responsiveness and support. He was first elected State Representative in 1988 and currently serves as the ranking minority member of the House Insurance Committee and is a member of the House Public Health Committee, Financial Institutions Committee, and the Select Committee on Government Reduction.  Rep. Fry serves portions of St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties in House District 5. He is currently running for Mayor in the City of Mishawaka.

 

Meritorious Service Award – Dr. Steven A. Levin

 

The Meritorious Service Award is bestowed on members in recognition for service to the profession of Optometry in a specific category such as performing a particular job for the IOA or the AOA. Dr. Steven Levin has taken on tasks including PAC treasurer, awards chairman and master of ceremonies for the IOA annual spring convention. Steve is also a past president of the IOA, serving from 1988 to 1989. His tireless work was previously recognized with a Meritorious Service award in 1993, Distinguished Service award in 1996 and in 2001 he was selected Optometrist of the Year. Dr. Levin calls East Chicago home.

 

Meritorious Service Award – Dr. Nicholas J. Garn

 

Dr. Nick Garn is passionate about Optometry students. He serves as the IOA liaison to IUSO and has enthusiastically taken on many responsibilities in that role. Nick has created a seminar for students on best practices and the importance of the IOA’s advocacy in the life span of their careers. Dr. Garn is a 2006 graduate of IUSO and now lives and practices in Zionsville.

 

 

 

Three Indiana University School of Optometry students also received awards

in recognition not only for scholarship, but also community service and humanity.

 

Jack Bennett Humanitarian Award – Amanda LaPlante

 

Jane Hofstetter Award – Alex Jones

 

Alice Bennett Award – Megan Walton

 
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