Class of 2025 Doctoral Convocation

On May 3, 2025, following four challenging and rewarding years of hard work, the Class of 2025 officially became Doctors of Optometry! The Doctoral Convocation Ceremony took place at Weigel Auditorium in the Timashev Family Music Building, with Acting Dean Jeffrey Walline (OD, MS’98, PhD’02) presiding. 

The Optometry Alumni Society’s annual award winners offered an uplifting start to the ceremony. Ann Morrison (OD’14, MS’16, PhD’21) received the Early Professional Achievement Award. In her remarks, Dr. Morrison encouraged the graduates to embrace change, take chances, learn from discomfort, and lean on their support systems. She encouraged them to stay humble, ask for help when needed, and always represent Ohio State with pride as they move forward in their careers.

Jeffrey Myers (OD’84) was honored posthumously with the Distinguished Alumnus Award, which was accepted by his widow, Joyce Myers. Mrs. Myers shared heartfelt reflections on Dr. Myers’ life, legacy, and deep commitment to faith, service, and the optometric profession. She encouraged graduates to cherish their support networks, seek ways to give back, and consider the legacy they will build through acts of service and compassion. Drawing from Dr. Myers’ life, including his mentorship, global outreach, and generosity, she urged the Class of 2025 to let love inspire meaningful actions in their careers and communities.

Each graduate was then hooded by Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Michael Earley (OD/MS’88, PhD’92), who was assisted by Gregory Nixon (OD’96). As they crossed the stage, Aaron Zimmerman (OD’06, MS’08) read personal statements written by the graduates, through which they shared reflections on optometry school and expressed their sincere gratitude for their family, friends, and classmates.  After the future leaders of the optometry profession received their hoods, Optometry Alumni Society Trustee Lauren Haverly (OD’14) enthusiastically welcomed the Class of 2025 into the alumni community.

To close the ceremony, the Class of 2025 selected classmate Juliana Mazzotta (OD’25) to speak on their behalf. Dr. Mazzotta reflected with pride and humor on the journey of the Class of 2025, highlighting their resilience, growth, and strength. She praised the unwavering support of Ohio State’s faculty and community, crediting them for helping shape an exceptional class of compassionate, capable optometrists. With gratitude and optimism, she encouraged her classmates to stay connected to their roots, continue uplifting one another, and confidently step into the future of optometry. Finally, Becca O’Brien (OD’25) led the graduates and all there to celebrate them in the singing of “Carmen Ohio.”

The Class of 2025