source: IER

24 October 2008, Anaheim, US: Brien Holden, CEO of the Institute for Eye Research, and Professor of the School of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of New South Wales, has been awarded the prestigious Carel C. Koch Memorial Medal Award at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Optometry.

Professor Holden received the award as recognition by the Academy of his outstanding contribution to the enhancement and development of relationships between optometry and other professions.

Carel Koch was a founding member of the Academy and for more than thirty years its secretary and editor of the Academy’s journal, ‘Optometry & Vision Science’. Professor Holden said receiving the award from the Academy was a great honour. “Carel Koch is a major figure in the history of optometry who made outstanding contributions to scholarly works and the development of the Academy”, he said.

“To be presented with this award by the Academy is a great honour and in a major way a tribute to Nag Rao, Antti Vannas, Hugh Taylor and Serge Resnikoff, four of the many ophthalmologists I have worked with over the years who cared more about advancing eye health and vision care, especially for those in need, than professional boundaries,”

The Academy’s annual meeting is the biggest event on the international optometric, scientific and educational calendar. It provides a unique educational opportunity for optometrists, vision scientists and students from around the world to learn about the latest developments in research and practice, as well as the newest products, technology and equipment.

Professor Holden has been attending and delivering research findings at the annual meeting for more than twenty-five years. “The American Academy’s annual meeting is the benchmark optometry scientific meeting”, he said.

“It brings together practitioners, researchers and educators from around the world, providing an opportunity for the exchange of ideas that are so crucial to the development of optometry and ultimately improvements in vision and eye health for people”, Professor Holden said.

For more information about the American Academy of Optometry go to: www.aaopt.org