The American Academy of Ophthalmology is pleased to announce Tamara R. Fountain, MD, as the 2023 EnergEYES Award recipient. This honor is awarded to a senior ophthalmologist who demonstrates exemplary leadership skills by energizing others to improve ophthalmology. This individual is one who mentors and guides young ophthalmologists (YOs), serves as a strong role model and displays high energy that motivates YOs to get involved.
Dr. Fountain is professor of ophthalmology at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and also has a private practice in oculofacial plastic surgery. She received her undergraduate degree from Stanford University and her MD from Harvard Medical School. She completed her residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital’s Wilmer Eye Institute and pursued fellowship training in plastic and reconstructive surgery at University of Southern California Doheny Eye Institute.
Dr. Fountain has been involved with the Academy since 1990 and served as Academy president in 2021. Dr. Fountain has served as the Academy’s Secretary for Member Services, at-large member of the Board of Trustees and editorial board member of EyeNet® Magazine. She was also a member of several Academy committees, including Young Ophthalmologists; Ethics; and Health Policy Committees and was one of the first participants of the inaugural Leadership Development Program. She was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her service to the Academy.
Dr. Fountain is past president of American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) and received the Orkan Stasior Leadership Award for her dedication to the society. She also served on many committees and chaired the board of directors for Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Co. (OMIC). She’s been involved in her state society for many years and is a past president of the Illinois Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons.
Dr. Fountain has led by example, and many YOs have benefited from her leadership, mentorship, wisdom and guidance. She currently serves as a member of the Academy’s Senior Ophthalmologist Committee and on the American Board of Ophthalmology Board of Directors. Throughout her career in ophthalmology, Dr. Fountain continues to mentor and inspire her colleagues.