NEW YORK, NY – On Tuesday, March 12, 2024, over 120 industry professionals, alumni, board members, friends. faculty, and staff gathered at Bryant Park Grille to honor and celebrate the remarkable career of SUNY College of Optometry President Dr. David A. Heath. He is retiring as President in June after 17 years of dedicated leadership and service to the college community.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Heath has made significant contributions to the college, leaving an indelible mark on both students and colleagues. Under his guidance, annual scholarships for students have flourished, providing countless opportunities for aspiring optometrists. Vision research has seen significant increases and expansion. Moreover, his unwavering commitment to fostering a diverse college community has created an inclusive environment for students, patients, faculty, and staff.
One of Dr. Heath’s most notable achievements is the transformation of the 42 Street campus, which houses the esteemed University Eye Center. With over $100 million invested in renovations, the campus has become a national leader in optometric education and patient care. These enhancements have not only improved the learning experience for students and enhanced research but have also elevated the level of care provided to patients.
During the retirement celebration, Dr. Heath took a moment to express his gratitude to all those in attendance. He humbly acknowledged the honor and privilege it has been to serve the college and its community. His heartfelt words resonated with the audience, highlighting the deep connection he has forged with the institution and its members.
As Dr. Heath embarks on this new chapter in his life, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of optometrists. Following his retirement, he will help guide the launch of a doctor of optometry extension program in partnership with Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY.
His dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence have set a high standard for the college community.
For more information about Dr. David A. Heath’s retirement and remarkable contributions to the college, please see his Retirement Announcement from September 2023.
Contact: Rob Rosiello, communications@sunyopt.edu
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About SUNY Optometry
Founded in 1971 and located in New York City, the State University of New York College of Optometry is a leader in education, research, and patient care, offering the Doctor of Optometry degree as well as MS and Ph.D. degrees in vision science. The College conducts a robust program of basic, translational and clinical research and has 65 affiliated clinical training sites. SUNY Optometry is regionally accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools; its four-year professional degree program and residency programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education of the American Optometric Association. All classrooms, research facilities, and the University Eye Center, which is one of the largest optometric outpatient facilities in the nation, are located on 42nd Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in midtown Manhattan. To learn more about SUNY Optometry, visit www.sunyopt.edu.