The University of Iowa’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences recently marked an important milestone with a special evening celebrating three distinguished faculty members who received endowed appointments—among the most prestigious honors in academic medicine.
These appointments were made possible through the generosity of donors whose deep ties to the department inspired them to invest in its future. By establishing these endowments, they have empowered outstanding faculty to carry forward their vision, accelerate innovation, and expand opportunities for generations to come.
Dr. Elliott Sohn was named the inaugural Diabetic Retinopathy Research Chair, an endowment established by a grateful patient who shares his commitment to improving patient care and driving innovative research to develop treatments for a condition that affects millions worldwide.
Dr. Ian Han was recognized as the Judith (Gardner) and Donald H. Beisner, M.D. Professorship in Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery. Previously held by Dr. James Folk, this professorship carries forward the legacy of Judith and Dr. Donald Beisner—an Iowa-trained ophthalmologist whose gratitude for his education has helped ensure that future leaders in vitreoretinal surgery continue to thrive at Iowa.
Dr. Pavlina Kemp was named the Rodolfo N. Perez, Jr., M.D., and Margaret B. Perez Professorship in Ophthalmology Education. This professorship reflects the Perez family’s dedication to teaching and service. Building on a tradition of educational excellence established by her predecessor Dr. Thomas Oetting and honoring Dr. Rodolfo Perez, also an Iowa-trained ophthalmologist, Dr. Kemp’s appointment reinforces the department’s reputation as a national leader in ophthalmic education.
The evening celebrated not only the remarkable achievements of Drs. Sohn, Han, and Kemp, but also the generosity and vision of the donors who made these endowed positions possible. Together, they highlight the department’s ongoing commitment to excellence in patient care, research, and education, and underscore its role in shaping the future of ophthalmology for generations to come.
