by Jessica Pasley
Paul Sternberg Jr., MD, G.W. Hale Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Vanderbilt and chair of the department, recently received the American Academy of Ophthalmology EnergEYES Award, given by the academy’s young ophthalmologists.
The award recognizes an ophthalmologist who demonstrates exemplary leadership skills, is a mentor to young ophthalmologists, serves as a strong role model and displays high energy that motivates them to get involved.
Sternberg received the award during the academy’s annual meeting in San Francisco.
“I was not aware that I was being recognized and was caught completely by surprise,” said Sternberg. “This award is highly meaningful to me. Mentoring young ophthalmologists has been a major priority for me throughout my career, particularly encouraging them to become involved in serving and advocating for their profession.
“It was quite touching to see so many of my current and former trainees, as well as a generous cohort of Vanderbilt Eye Institute’s junior faculty, to share in the surprise recognition.”
Sternberg served as president of the organization in 2013. He was also been honored with the Senior Honor Award in 2000 for contributions made to the academy’s scientific and educational programs and to the profession of ophthalmology, followed by the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.
