As we reflect on the year 2025, it is with great pride that we acknowledge the remarkable strides made by our faculty, staff, and students in exemplifying the true meaning of excellence. The year was a testament to our collective dedication and hard work.
Featured Stories
New faculty strengthen optometry education, patient care and research
Four faculty members were hired in 2025 to join the UAB School of Optometry, with three beginning their roles that year and one joining in early 2026. Their expertise strengthens the curriculum, enhances patient care and expands research focus areas, supporting the school’s mission to advance vision science and improve eye care.
Optometry student, alumni build vision and community at health clinic
Through a partnership between optometry student Malia McDowell and UAB School of Optometry alumni, the Community of Hope Health Clinic in Shelby County expanded its services in 2024 to include free, fully dilated eye exams for uninsured patients, many of whom have diabetes and had never received an eye exam before.
Bioptic driving opens road for patient with low vision
Amadou Bah achieved his goal of driving independently through UAB Eye Care’s bioptic driving program, completing extensive evaluations, spotting practice and behind the wheel training using specialized telescopic lenses. With support from optometrist Terri Call, OD, and UAB’s low vision rehabilitation team.
Vision research tackles myopia epidemic and visual processing following disease-related vision loss
Vision scientists received two federal grants totaling nearly $4 million from the National Eye Institute to support groundbreaking research aimed at better understanding the myopia epidemic and the brain’s response to visual stimuli.