Richard Cornett (Rick), executive director of the Ohio Optometric Association (OOA), received the College’s H. Ward Ewalt Medal last week during a surprise presentation at an on-campus OOA function attended by faculty, staff, and students. The medal recognizes Rick’s exceptional service to the College and the profession of optometry. He is the 10th recipient of the medal in the award’s history.

Dr. Ewalt was the first graduate from The Ohio State University optometry program to serve as President of the American Optometric Association (AOA). Dr. Ewalt was also instrumental in helping optometry to be recognized by the National Commission on Accrediting. He helped form the AOA’s Accreditation Council on Optometric Education and served as its first chair. Dr. Ewalt was also the first optometric consultant to the surgeon general of the U.S. Army. In recognition of these accomplishments, this medal was struck in his name to recognize dedicated service to the profession of optometry. Dr. Ewalt, himself, was the medal’s first recipient in 1991.