President's Message
A Welcome Back, A Thank You, and A Welcome!
Dear Buckeye Optometry Alumni,
It is with much excitement that we welcome back Karla Zadnik, OD, PhD, as Dean of The Ohio State University College of Optometry! Dr. Zadnik’s return is a true homecoming for all of us. Her visionary leadership, dedication to advancing our profession, and unrelenting support of students, faculty, staff, and alumni alike have long made her a cornerstone of the College of Optometry. Her influence resonates far beyond the confines of Fry Hall to several national optometric organizations. Most recently, Dr. Zadnik has served as Interim Dean of the College of Public Health for the past two years and as Interim Vice President and Provost of the university from January 1, 2024 to January 13, 2025. We are so grateful to have her back home.
I would also like to extend heartfelt appreciation to Jeff Walline (OD, MS’98, PhD’02), who served as Acting Dean with outstanding poise and leadership. Throughout a period of transition, Dr. Walline provided stability and vision, never losing “sight” of what makes the College of Optometry so special (no puns intended!). His contributions during this interim period reflect not only his deep institutional knowledge but also his unwavering commitment to the College of Optometry. On behalf of all alumni, thank you, Dr. Walline!
Autumn semester brings the arrival of the Class of 2029. To our newest Buckeyes: Welcome to the best College of Optometry in the nation. You are joining a vibrant community that stretches across the country and beyond. Your journey will be challenging, inspiring, and unforgettable—and it will be shaped by faculty who care deeply and are eager to provide the knowledge and tools for you to succeed, classmates who will become lifelong friends, and alumni who stand ready to support you. I hope this is the best four years of your life!
Let us continue to lead with Buckeye pride—mentoring, encouraging, and investing in the future of optometry. We have much to celebrate, and even more to look forward to.
Go Buckeyes!
Jason Ortman (OD’00)
President
The Ohio State University College of Optometry Alumni Society
