Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Archive — Page 1 of 10

Exterior of the Vanderbilt Eye Institute, with its name displayed on the facade, beside a street with pedestrians, cars, and surrounding medical-center buildings.
October 13, 2026

John Gass named Chair of Vanderbilt Eye Institute Advisory Board

A founding member of the Advisory Board with deep connections to Vanderbilt Health, he succeeds Liz Potocsnak, who completed her term as Chair this summer.

By Evan Dorian
Blurred nighttime view of Vanderbilt University Hospital’s Adult Emergency entrance, with illuminated signage, an ambulance, and vehicle light trails.
August 3, 2026

Study explores diagnostic utility of ocular ultrasound in the emergency department

The study found that point-of-care ultrasound had a high sensitivity for detecting vitreoretinal pathology, but had only moderate accuracy and a low sensitivity for detecting other ocular pathologies that may require prompt intervention.

By Doug Campbell
Portrait of Sean Donahue, MD, PhD, with curly gray hair, wearing a collared shirt, patterned tie, and dark jacket.
April 7, 2026

National ophthalmology association honors Sean Donahue’s leadership, service  

The Marshal M. Parks Bronze Medal is awarded to past presidents of AAPOS and other individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to children’s eye care.

By Jessica Pasley
Transparent glass sphere over concentric circular patterns, creating a blue-toned optical illusion with the rings magnified and distorted through the sphere.
December 2, 2025

Study seeks to determine best way to treat myopia in children

Researchers hope to slow the progression of this chronic eye disease that affects approximately 40% of the U.S. population.

By Jessica Pasley
Abstract circular pattern of multicolored, fiber-like lines radiating from a dark center against a black background.
September 22, 2025

NIH grant renewal signals bright outlook for Vanderbilt vision research

The Vanderbilt Vision Research Center was founded in 1989 and secured the National Eye Institute core grant that still supports it; the grant will provide approximately $3.3 million over the current five-year funding period.

By Leigh MacMillan
Tonia Rex, PhD, left, Lori Ann Kehler, OD, Brad Turner and Tennessee Sen. Jeff Yarbro pose for a photo at the Project PAVE check presentation. (photo by Donn Jones)
August 20, 2025

Tennessee grant ensures continued visual services for students through Project PAVE  

Project PAVE (Providing Access to the Visual Environment) was established in 1993 as a collaborative program between the Tennessee Department of Education, Lions Clubs of Tennessee and Vanderbilt University.

By Holly Fletcher