Several faculty members from the University of Houston College of Optometry received top honors at the 2024 American Academy of Optometry Awards Ceremony, held during the annual meeting in Indianapolis.
Geunyoung Yoon, PhD
Irvin M. Borish Professor
Geunyoung Yoon, PhD, received the prestigious Glenn A. Fry Lecture Award, which is given annually to a scientist or clinician whose research has made a profound impact on the field of vision science. Dr. Yoon’s groundbreaking work in physiological optics and vision science has advanced both scientific understanding and clinical practice, paving the way for future innovations in the field.
Michael Twa, OD, PhD, FAAO
Humana Endowed Dean's Chair of Optometry
The Garland W. Clay Award is presented to the authors of a paper published in Optometry and Vision Science that ranks as the most cited in the past five years. In 2024, the award was presented to Gongpu Lan, PhD; Salavat Aglyamov, PhD; Kirill Larin, PhD; and Michael Twa, OD, PhD, FAAO for their paper, “In Vivo Human Corneal Shear-Wave Optical Coherence Elastography,” which introduces a novel technique for measuring corneal tissue stiffness in living patients—a breakthrough that could improve the diagnosis and treatment of corneal and other eye conditions.
James Wolffsohn, FAAO
Adjunct Faculty
James Wolffsohn, FAAO, received the Founders' Award from the Academy’s Section on Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies in recognition of his influential research in contact lens fitting. Dr. Wolffsohn has significantly impacted clinical practices, mainly by developing objective methods for grading hyperemia (eye inflammation) and refining techniques for lid eversion. His research continues to shape the clinical approach to contact lens care, improving patient outcomes worldwide.
Danica Marrelli, OD, FAAO
Assistant Dean for Clinical Education
Danica J. Marrelli, OD, FAAO, was awarded the Michael G. Harris Family Award for Excellence in Optometric Education. This award acknowledges her outstanding contributions to optometric education over her 31-year career at the University of Houston College of Optometry. Recognized for her expertise in glaucoma and ocular disease, Dr. Marrelli has mentored and inspired generations of optometry students, significantly advancing both clinical practice and education in the field.
“These awards reflect the dedication of our faculty to advancing research, education, and patient care,” said Michael Twa, Dean of the University of Houston College of Optometry. “Their continued contributions elevate our college and help shape the future of optometry through innovation and leadership.”
A 2024 American Academy of Optometry Annual Meeting photo album
