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Hall of Fame induction: ‘Of all the healing arts, optometry is the best’
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DENVER – The AOA recognized three hard-working and noteworthy optometrists: David A. Cockrell, OD, FAAO; Irwin B. Suchoff, OD; and Lesley L. Walls, OD, MD, by induction to its hall of fame during a ceremony at Optometry’s Meeting.
The annual induction recognizes, “leaders, legends and luminaries,” according to Paul C. Ajamian, OD, chair of the National Optometry Hall of Fame selection committee, who gave opening remarks.
Steve Loomis, OD, presented a warm introduction for Cockrell, who graduated with his wife, Cherry Cockrell, OD, from Southern College of Optometry in 1981 and went on to build, “a busy and the most progressive practice,” Loomis said.
“He really single-handedly formed the American Board of Optometry,” Loomis added, a remark which resonated with the audience by many nods and smiles.
Cockrell personifies, “an intense spirit and drive to fight for what is right,” Loomis said.
He has also been influential in the industry by serving as a consistent mentor to doctors seeking to expand scope in other states, Loomis added.
“He is authentic, truthful and, most of the time, gracious,” he continued.
Cockrell attributed his success to his wife and his love for the optometry and helping patients.
“Nothing I have done is for personal recognition,” Cockrell said.
Carol Morowich, OD, recognized Suchoff, who passed away in April. She presented his award to Suchoff’s son, Andrew.
He created projects for the future by expanding horizons, she said.
“He could see what was needed and make it happen,” Morowich added.
He was Irwin the visionary, Irwin the co-conspirator and Irwin the investigator, Morowich said.
“Tonight, we celebrate his intellectual curiosity and we are truly honored to have some of his family here,” Morowich said.
The final speaker was former AOA President Kevin L. Alexander, OD, PhD, who presented the award to Walls.
Walls is a pathfinder, as his combined medical optometry training with his medical degree allows him to have a dual perspective, according to Ajamian.
He has lectured all over the world.
“He’s never failed to answer the call, even at pressure from MD colleagues,” Alexander said.
“It has been a joy and I love all of you,” Walls said with tears welling up, as he accepted his award.
“None of us did this to get in the hall of fame; we wanted to serve the profession we love,” he added.
“Of all the healing arts, the best is optometry ... if someone told me I could only practice one of my degrees, one profession, optometry would be it,” Walls said. – by Abigail Sutton
Disclosures: No products were discussed that would require financial disclosure.