President's Message
Dear Fellow Alumni,
On New Year’s Day, I watched the Rose Bowl as the Buckeyes avenged their previous loss to Oregon. This game was very different from their first meeting in early October. With an explosive offense and sound defense, this game was over by halftime. Watching the Buckeye football team throughout this season has been exciting most of the time and occasionally disappointing, especially losing to TTUN. But the resilience of the Buckeyes in the College Football Playoffs teaches us lessons in overcoming adversity and being prepared.
Careful preparation has been instrumental in advancing the scope of optometric practice. Through the advocacy of the optometric community, including schools and colleges of optometry, our profession has continually advanced for the benefit of our patients. Our current battle to expand our scope of practice includes the ability to perform certain laser and injectable procedures. Thanks to the countless Ohio State University College of Optometry faculty, students and alumni who are leading these efforts in Ohio and throughout the country. At last count, optometrists in 10 states have been able to persuade their legislators that they are prepared to deliver advanced optometric care for the benefit of their patients.
2025 will be a pivotal year for optometry as more states consider scope expansion. Much like preparation for a college football game, “Team Optometry” must execute a successful game plan. This plan includes every Ohio State College of Optometry alumnus – YOU! You can do your part and support “Team Optometry” and advance our profession to its next win in the following ways:
- Get involved in organized optometry and volunteer to meet with your state and federal elected officials.
- Become an advocate and encourage potential students to consider optometry as a profession.
- Volunteer by having current students shadow or intern at your office.
- Stay connected with Ohio State and consider the College of Optometry in your annual giving.
It takes a team effort to bring success, such as a National Championship, in football. In supporting optometry, our team effort will continue to expand access and provide quality eye care for our patients, and in turn bring success for our profession today and into the future.
Let’s Go Buckeyes!
Jason Ortman (OD’00)
President, The Ohio State University College of Optometry Alumni Society
