NECO Change Makers
When our faculty and alumni take action for their patients, industry leaders notice.
Dr. Nicole Ross ’11 was named a 2023 Centennial William C. Ezell Fellow by the American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF). Her extensive research in the field of low vision and dedication to accessible eye care have earned her this prestigious title and award. Dr. Ross is the latest NECO-affiliated recipient of an Ezell Fellowship, along with fellow alumna Dr. Kierstyn Napier-Dovorany ‘05 who is currently an Adjunct Associate Clinical Professor at Indiana University, Bloomington.
Both recipients are PhD candidates, with Dr. Ross studying Psychology at Northeastern University and Dr. Napier-Dovorany at Indiana University where she is enrolled in the Vision Science program. Similar to Dr. Ross, Dr. Napier-Dovorany has dedicated much of her research to older adults with low vision and working with patients and practitioners to provide more accessible care and quality of life.
The Ezell Fellowships recognize and support individuals who have dedicated their careers to both optometric research and education. Established in 1947 and named for the founding president of the AAO Foundation, William C. Ezell, OD, nearly 500 Ezell Fellowships have been awarded to exceptional individuals.
With more than 15 NECO Alumni, including former NECO President Dr. William Baldwin, and longtime NECO faculty Dr. Glen McCormack, Doctors Ross and Napier-Dovorany continue the long legacy of NECO community members being recognized for their commitment to research and education. While the Ezell Fellowships have evolved into the flagship program for the American Academy of Optometry Foundation, the Foundation offers a number of other grants, awards, and fellowships. These awards are made possible by donations from individual donors, private endowments, and other optometric companies and organizations.
This prestigious award embodies what NECO stands for: Eye care for all and a commitment to learning. “We are proud of our NECO community members for their recognition and have witnessed the positive impact they have made on the field of optometry,” shares NECO President and CEO Dr. Howard Purcell. “From Dr. Napier-Dovorany’s focus on increasing safety for patients with low vision, to Dr. Ross’s ability to apply telehealth solutions and the use of adapted devices to better serve patients, these two individuals will undoubtedly continue to change the way people see the world.”
All 16 of the 2023 Ezell recipients were recognized at this year’s Academy hosted by the AAO in New Orleans, Louisiana. In attendance was Dr. Nicole Ross, who also presented multiple courses and papers on her latest discoveries, including “Low Vision Tech: Are Smartphones Replacing Optical Low Vision Aids?” and “Life Space Limitations in Visually Impaired Seniors are Related to Vision and Socioeconomic Factors.”