A Vision for Service
For nearly four decades, Brad Oatney (OD’87) has woven his faith and commitment to service into a remarkable career in optometry. His story is not just one of professional achievement but of an enduring dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. He has done so in almost every way imaginable – in private practice, local community clinic service, international mission trips, industry consulting, clinician education, board service, and perhaps most importantly, as a husband and father.
Dr. Oatney’s path to optometry was a journey of both passion and purpose. His decision to pursue this field began with an eye injury during his undergraduate studies. His experience as a patient introduced him to optometry, and he was intrigued by its potential to impact lives. Optometry appealed to him as a career that combined scientific precision with a meaningful human connection. His choice of Ohio State for his education was a natural fit, given its esteemed program and his own values of commitment and excellence.
At Ohio State, he was a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa International Optometric Honor Society and received the Lions Club’s Outstanding Service Award. As he transitioned from student to professional, Dr. Oatney approached his career with proactive planning. He understood early on that success in optometry would require not only technical skills but also strategic foresight and dedication.
A cornerstone of Dr. Oatney’s philosophy is the belief that optometry is not just about treating eyes but about enhancing overall well-being. He carried this belief throughout his career, treating patients of all kinds.
Dr. Oatney’s career has been marked by a legacy of leadership and service. His advice to new optometrists is both practical and inspirational. He encourages them to seek out practices where they can truly make a difference, rather than merely performing routine eye exams. The key, he says, is to find a practice that aligns with one’s values and goals, balancing financial considerations with the desire to impact lives positively.
Reflecting on his own journey from a humble beginning in Miamisburg to working in challenging environments such as hospitals in Ecuador, Africa and Cambodia. Dr. Oatney emphasizes the importance of serving those in need. His experiences have shaped his approach to optometry, blending high-level professional engagement with grassroots humanitarian efforts. In 2022, he became a member of the Board of Governors at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Reflecting on his own journey from a humble beginning in Miamisburg to working in challenging environments such as hospitals in Ecuador, Africa and Cambodia. Dr. Oatney emphasizes the importance of serving those in need.
Dr. Oatney’s commitment to lifelong learning is evident in his diverse experiences and achievements. From board meetings to mission trips, he has consistently stayed at the forefront of his field. His involvement in industry innovations, such as exploring AI and headset technology, showcases his dedication to staying current and relevant.
Family plays a crucial role in Dr. Oatney’s life. All members of his immediate family are Ohio State Buckeyes. His wife, Ellen, and children, Elizabeth Mullineaux, Ben Oatney and Claire Oatney, chose to study education, public health, social work and medicine, further highlighting the family’s dedication to service.
As Dr. Oatney reflects on his career, he hopes to inspire others who may be unsure about their paths. He believes that by focusing on giving rather than receiving and maintaining a sense of other-centeredness, one can create a meaningful and fulfilling career. His early experiences in nursing homes and mission trips laid the foundation for a lifetime of service, demonstrating the power of small acts of kindness and dedication.
Dr. Oatney’s approach to optometry combines professional skill with a deep sense of purpose. He has managed to integrate his faith, his commitment to learning, and his passion for helping others into a career that continues to evolve and inspire. His story is a testament to the transformative power of optometry and the profound impact one individual can have on both their profession and the world. Currently, he is in private practice in Delaware, Ohio with his optometry school roommate, Ron Gaudio (OD’87). As Dr. Oatney reflects on his fulfilling career, he says, “I am grateful to God that I continue to learn that I am blessed to be a blessing to others.”
