Many ophthalmologists in the U.S. and around the world remember Academy staffer, Wendy Ovaitt. Since her start with the Academy in 1991 her entire focus was on our international outreach programs. Her career at the Academy spanned 20 years and was devoted to ophthalmologists in the developing world.
Every year at the Annual Meeting she welcomed ophthalmologists who were beneficiaries of the Academy | Rotary Program. During the course of the year she corresponded with even more ophthalmologists around the world. She was their voice within the Academy, always wanting to share our educational resources with them.
Wendy forged a strong bond with the volunteer leaders of our international committees and was highly-regarded by them. She avoided the limelight but was always there ensuring follow-through on their agendas and execution of their plans.
In 2011, Wendy retired to Hawaii where she enjoyed time with her family. Sadly, Wendy passed away in December, unexpectedly, of a cardiac event during surgery.
At AAO 2017 in New Orleans, there will be a Tribute book, in the Global Alliances office, where those who knew her may write a message about their connection with and thoughts about Wendy. We will send it to her sister.
Monetary tributes in her memory may be made to the Global Outreach programs supported by the American Academy of Ophthalmology Foundation. Her sister will be notified of your generosity.
Jane Aguirre
Vice President, Global Alliances