NSUCO - The Visionary Fall 2017

2 • NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY I am starting my 21st year as dean at the NSU College of Optometry (NSUCO) and have seen many positive changes over the past 20 years. When I arrived, I recall discussing with Morton Terry, D.O., his vision for the future of the Health Professions Division (HPD), and I am sure he would be very pleased with the progress and expansion of the HPD, as well as NSU. The growing legacy of NSUCO continues with more than 2,500 alumni, including many who serve in very important positions both inside and outside of Florida. I think we have evidence to show we are fulfilling our mission: To prepare, educate, and train optometric phy- sicians to practice at the highest level of proficiency, integrity, and professionalism and to provide a multi- disciplinary environment that encourages scholarly activity, service, and lifelong learning. Because the optometry program has been at the Fort Lauderdale/Davie Campus since 1997, it was clear that specific clinics and labs needed a face-lift. Through HPD administration funding and grants, the Pediatrics/ Binocular Vision Service was renewed with an expanded office for student/resident/faculty interaction, as well as space for additional head trauma, sports vision, and autistic patient services. The Ophthalmic Optics/Contact Lens Lab and the Pediatrics/Low Vision Lab were restored with new fur- niture and additional counter space and sinks. This summer, the Procedures Lab—also known as OTM—is being transformed with new exam rooms that include electronic presentation capabilities, video slit lamps, a room with procedure simulation equipment, and a dedi- cated National Board of Examiners in Optometry room for students to prepare for Part III of the national boards. To help train students for advanced procedures, a new Injection and Surgical Procedures Lab was constructed in an auxiliary space with the practice arms and other required equipment. These efforts demonstrate that the college is moving in a positive direction for student education. As in the past, students receive a portion of their clinical training in The Eye Care Institute, which consists of five clinical sites. One advantage of our clinical program is the diverse patient population in South Florida. We con- tinuously update or replace standard ophthalmic equip- ment and purchase the latest state-of-the-art diagnostic tools so our students are exposed to the newest tech- niques, and patients receive the most advanced care. Faculty members are publishing in peer-reviewed jour- nals and presenting papers and posters at professional meetings. Significant progress is being made to develop the research skills of the optometry faculty members, who can enroll in the college’s Master of Science in Clinical Vision Research program at a reduced cost. Additionally, many of our faculty members were recog- nized through academic awards and research funding by NSU, private companies, and federal grants. Scholarships make it possible for us to attract and retain an exceptional, diverse student body and develop the next generation of outstanding optometric physicians. I encourage you to make a contribution to the college to assist current and future students with their educational costs. Your support will enhance the college now and sustain its excellence in the future. If you would like to initiate a pledge or make a one-time donation, please visit realizingpotential.nova.edu/give/ . On a similar note, I would like to express gratitude to our alumni and faculty and staff members who gener- ously donate to the college. Every gift, regardless of the amount, assists in our continuous growth as a premier optometric institution. David S. Loshin, O.D., Ph.D., FAAO Dean, College of Optometry Nova Southeastern University Dean’s Message