Ophthalmologists in training ­ our residents and fellows ­ are the lifeblood of the profession. This year, our residency and fellowship programs were among the most highly ranked in the nation, and we are pleased to have successfully recruited the most talented, accomplished and promising young physician scientists. We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues this summer.

Creig S. Hoyt, MD Interim Department Chair

We have recently convened working groups to conduct a comprehensive review of our academic and clinical operations. Our Academic White Paper Committee, headed by Vice Chair for Research, David Copenhagen PhD, is evaluating our research programs, grant application process, resource allocation, and overall research strategy, while our Clinical White Paper Committee led by Vice Chair for Clinical Affairs, Stephen McLeod, MD, evaluates the quality of patient care, clinical efficiency, and the impact of reduced state and federal allocations for health care on our clinical operations. These findings will enhance our current operations and will provide a current overview of the state of affairs for our incoming Department Chair.

The search for a new Chair is well underway. It is gratifying that our department has attracted the applications of leading academicians from across the country. The field has been narrowed to a small number of the most accomplished, exciting candidates, and we expect to have a new chair named within the next few months. In the meantime, we are committed to advancing our clinical and academic mission, and look forward to a productive year.