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Optometry pioneer Alden N. Haffner, OD, dies at 87
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Alden N. Haffner, OD, PhD, FAAO, passed away at the age of 87 on June 22, according to an announcement from the American Academy of Optometry. Haffner is remembered for his service to the field of optometry.
Haffner graduated from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry with a doctor of optometry degree. He went on to serve as the first dean and founding president of the State University of New York College of Optometry.
Alden N. Haffner
He also served as the president of Public Health Association of New York City and was appointed by Pres. Ronald Reagan to the Subcommittee Medical Advisory Group in the Department of Veterans Affairs in 1987, according to the release.
Haffner became a fellow of the AAO in 1956. During his time with the academy, he served as both a diplomate and as chair to the Public Health and Environmental Vision Section for many years. At the Academy 2014 meeting in Denver, he was awarded the section’s inaugural Henry B. Peters Award for Public Health and Environmental Health.
Primary Care Optometry News Editorial board member Louis J. Catania, OD, FAAO, noted that Haffner was “a teacher, a mentor, a professional role model and an inspiration to all.”
Catania continued: “You’ve worked hard for optometry, Norman. Rest peacefully.”