The American Association of Certified Orthoptists (AACO) recently presented Ronald Biernacki, associate in Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Vanderbilt, the Lancaster Award, the highest award an orthoptist can receive.
Representing the pinnacle of the field, the award recognizes an orthoptist who has made substantial contributions to field in terms of leadership, research, teaching and patient care.
Biernacki was surprised by the honor given during the annual AACO Sunday Symposium.
“To be sitting in the audience and hearing the presenter start talking about your past accomplishments, then realize they are talking about you, and finally seeing a picture of yourself on the screen was surprising and emotional,” said Biernacki, director of the Orthoptic Program at the Vanderbilt Eye Institute.
“To be recognized by your peers at this level and to know your name is among the recipients is humbling. I’m grateful for all the support I have at VEI.
“They allowed me the opportunity to achieve my personal goals, which enabled me to receive this award. Without their support, it would not be possible,” Biernacki said.
Biernacki has served as president of the AACO and was instrumental in starting the orthoptic training program at Vanderbilt in 2011.
