Eyeworld

Establishing EyeWorld EyeWorld, the ASCRS member magazine, launched in 1996. The emphasis on articles written with multiple sources and opinions for a balanced approach, established at its founding, continues today. Establishing and growing the ASCRS Foundation The ASCRS Foundation encourages charitable effor ts worldwide. Its domestic program, Operation Sight, has helped provide nearly 10,000 charitable cataract surgeries. Innovation in laser vision correction Marguerite McDonald, MD, performed the world's first laser vision correction procedure on a human eye. The procedure was considered very controversial at the time. ASCRS has been supportive of advances in laser vision correction, including defending LASIK in an FDA hearing in 2008. ASCRS amps up advocacy ASCRS has become well known for its effor ts advocating for the interests of anterior segment surgeons and their patients. ASCRS Government Relations has fought for reimbursement, influenced patent law, kept members informed, and more. First female presidents of ASCRS Marguerite McDonald, MD, served as the first female president of ASCRS from 2002–2003. Following Dr. McDonald were Priscilla Arnold, MD, 2004–2005, Bonnie Henderson, MD, 2017–2018, and Elizabeth Yeu, MD, 2023–2024. UNPRECEDENTED A MESSAGE FROM ASCRS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR P. 48 FOR SURGEONS. FOR YOU. WWW.EYEWORLD.ORG APRIL 2020 VOLUME 25, NUMBER 3 Being proactive in education and on important issues ASCRS has continued to expand its educational oppor tunities through the years. In 2001, the Cornea Clinical Committee was added, coinciding with new developments in the cornea field. ASCRS now has Subspecialty Day programming focusing on cornea, glaucoma, and refractive surgery. Facing a global pandemic ASCRS and ophthalmology were hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to meet member needs during this time, ASCRS added a number of online resources, and provided information to help members navigate this challenging period. Industry and education ASCRS has had a unique relationship with industry over the years, understanding the important role it has in innovation and education. ASCRS has helped facilitate this partnership with integrity and independence for the benefit of members and patients. Developing the next generation and looking forward ASCRS is fortunate to have many committed members and leadership who help drive the Society. ASCRS takes pride in being a meritocracy and having many members of different backgrounds involved. A more recent focus has been on developing the next generation. The YES Clinical Committee helps facilitate opportunities for younger surgeons to get involved with ASCRS. A new Executive Director In 2018, Steve Speares took over for David Karcher as ASCRS Executive Director. Mr. Speares had a long history in the ophthalmic field prior to taking the reins at ASCRS. Having previously attended the ASCRS Annual Meeting on numerous occasions while working for various ophthalmic companies, Mr. Speares was very aware of the value of the Society and its meeting. 2020s

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