Faculty Development Events a Success Again

ASCO held its fifth Summer Institute for Faculty Development (SIFD) in July with a record number of 48 participants. Dr. David A. Damari, Dean of the Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris State University, and Dr. Shilpa J. Register, Dean of the MCPHS University School of Optometry, served as co-chairs for this year’s program.

Commenting on the value of the biennial event, Dr. Register said, “As a proud 2006 SIFD participant and current co-chair, I truly believe the SIFD is one of ASCO’s most important investments.

The SIFD provides grounds for candid discussion, guidance, support and long-term mentorship to our faculty who are the lifeline of the optometric profession.

Our mentors continue to provide a wealth of information based on their experiences and knowledge, which is valued by all. I am looking forward to incorporating the participant feedback we collected as we build the 2015 SIFD program.”

In conjunction with the SIFD, ASCO held its second Future Faculty Program (FFP), which was co-chaired by Dr. Register and Dr. Jeff Walline, Associate Professor at The Ohio State University College of Optometry. Up to 15 graduate students from the schools and colleges of optometry who have demonstrated a strong interest in pursuing a career in academic optometry are selected to participate in the FFP. Both the SIFD and the FFP are initiatives aimed at addressing ASCO’s strategic priority of faculty promotion and development.

ASCO thanks Alcon, Essilor, Vistakon, Luxottica, the National Board of Examiners in Optometry and Allergan for generously sponsoring the SIFD. Representatives from Alcon (Tom Duchardt), Vistakon (Dr. W. Lee Ball and Bill Crews), Luxottica (Tifani DeMaria) and Allergan (Mark Risher) attended the Institute this year. ASCO also thanks Walmart for its funding of the FFP. This year, Walmart Regional Talent Specialist Jennifer Goodman addressed the participants.

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