Message from the Chair

Dear Friends of UVA Ophthalmology,

I hope this newsletter finds all of you doing well! While my family and I are no longer new to UVA and Charlottesville, our having picked up and moved here has given me a deeper appreciation for the rhythms of life that are defined by our different physical environment and circumstances. For example, the beauty of the fall foliage used to be something that we would drive some distance to enjoy, whereas now I can experience it daily on my way to and from work. And this appreciation for life in central Virginia is something many of us share from our time as part of UVA Ophthalmology.

As a department, we continue to make an impact far from this place. I’m sure you will be inspired to learn about the research and patient care of our oculoplastic surgeon, Shannath Merbs, MD, PhD, to reduce blindness from trachoma in Tanzania. Closer to home, we provide a profile of a true departmental stalwart, Leslie Olsakovsky, MD, whose patient care and leadership have been pillars supporting the department for 30+ years. I’m also delighted that you will learn more about a tremendously generous gift from Katherine Holcomb, a long-time patient of Bruce Prum, MD, to endow an annual resident research award. And finally, I know you will be excited to hear about a wonderful project by our bright and motivated medical students to provide glasses to under-resourced patients in our community.

I am thrilled to be part of such a dynamic and impactful team of providers, trainees, and staff! Thank you for your interest and support. Please feel free to reach out to learn more about what’s happening in the department. We’d love to hear from you!

All my best,

Albert S. Jun, MD, PhD
Vernah Scott Moyston Professor and Chair