Ferris State University Big Rapids MI College

Scholarships
College of Optometry

Important: Ferris State University is dedicated to assisting students with their financial needs. As an added service to FSU students, we post outside scholarship opportunities on our website under the heading "Outside Scholarships." Ferris State University is not responsible for the awarding or application processes associated with outside scholarship opportunities. Any questions or concerns you have relative to outside scholarships should be directed to the contacts listed on the scholarship description or application.


Optometry I, II and III Scholarships, Grants, and Awards


American Foundation for Vision Awareness (AFVA-MOA)    Back to top

Originated by the American Foundation for Vision Awareness/Michigan Affiliate as administered by the Auxiliary to the Michigan Optometric Association. Available to third year students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, a demonstrated financial need, and intent to practice in Michigan following graduation.

Five (5) awards offered annually. Minimum scholarship award is $1,000.

Application, transcripts from optometry college, and letter of reference from optometry faculty member must be received by Auxiliary of MOA on or before May 1.

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American Optometric Association Advantage Scholarship    Back to top

Originated from the American Optometric Association Advantage Program. Available to second year students who has demonstrated academic achievement and also has demonstrated financial need as determined by the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.

Two (2) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,500.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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American Optometric Association Patrick E. Cummings Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by the AOA Endowment Fund established 2004. Available to a third year student good academic standing and in good standing in the AOSA and AOA. Must submit resume to summarize academic accomplishments and services. Submit paper on a specified topic. Decision made by Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean. National competition with one nominee from each school or college of optometry.

One (1) annual award of $3,000 offered. This is a national award.

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AOA Student Leadership Award

This scholarship is sponsored by the American Optometric Association and is available to third year student members in good standing in the AOSA and AOA. Student must have proven leadership roles and student government involvement. Be a student in good academic standing. Submit a one-page curriculum vitae and a brief statement that reflects value and or learning experience that the applicant gained from his or her leadership experience. Selection is done by the Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

The award amount is $1,000 and is applied during Fall of 4th year.

Application deadline: April 1st

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AOSA-Vistakon Travel Grant Essay Contest Award    Back to top

Established in 2003 by Vistakon, Johnson and Johnson in association with the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) offers this grant to student members in good standing with the AOA, AOSA and MCO. A student registered to attend the AOSA and AOA Convention for the year in question. Submit an application and a 300-500 word essay on a designated topic. Submit one-page curriculum vitae. Deadline: March 1. Local selection by the AOA Faculty Liaison, Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the associate Dean.

The award amount is two (2) $500 grants to attend optometry meeting. Grants offered for each school and college of optometry. National award of an additional $500 grant.

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Charles G. Peterson and Dorothy E. Peterson Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by the Dr. and Mrs. Charles G. Peterson Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund. Available to any student in optometry with demonstrated academic achievement, 3.2 GPA or greater, leadership qualities and financial need. Preference shall be given to students who are non-Michigan residents.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,000.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards and Admissions Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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CIBA Vision - Clinical Excellence Scholarship    Back to top

Originating from CIBA Vision, this scholarship is available to a second year student with the highest GPA in Contact Lens course, others if top GPA student does not accept scholarship and associated administrative responsibilities for the processing of CIBA Vision Complimentary Contact Lenses and in keeping CIBA Vision lens care starter kits in stock.

One (1) annual award of $1,000 available from May 16 through April of the third year.

No application necessary. Selection by Contact lens faculty in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Dr. Henry Racki Optometry Scholarship Endowment Program    Back to top

Originated by the Dr. Henry R. Racki Optometry Scholarship Endowment Fund. Dr. Racki established this Endowment in appreciation of the profession of optometry with the hope that recipients of these scholarships will follow a virtuous life and career. Available to a second year student. Preference given to students who have demonstrated an interest in liberal arts and/or are residents of Macomb County, Michigan.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,200.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Dr. Jack W. Bennett Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Originating from the family and friends of Dr. Jack W. Bennett, founding dean of the Ferris State University College of Optometry, this scholarship is available to a third year student who demonstrates the principles and high ethical ideals of professionalism that Dr. Bennett exemplified.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,000.

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Dr. Joseph D. Sasaki Scholarship    Back to top

Established by Joseph D. Sasaki Endowment Fund and Beta Sigma Kappa in 1976, this scholarship is available to a third year student in good standing.

One (1) annual award of $150.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Dr. Merrill R. Murray Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by the endowment fund of Dr. Merrill R Murray. Dr Murray served at FSU in several administrative positions from 1959 to 1982. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the doctor of optometry program. At his retirement he was the Associate Dean of the College of Optometry. This scholarship is available to full time students at MCO with an earned minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Must have demonstrated personal characteristics of professionalism, leadership, concern for others and dedication to quality care and community. First preference will be given to students who attained their primary and or secondary education in Mecosta County, Michigan or Hanry County, Indiana.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally not less than $500.

Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Dr. Paul E. Borton Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by the Dr. Paul E. Borton Scholarship Endowment Fund. Dr Borton was past president of the Michigan Optometric Association, served on the Michigan Optometric State Board of Examiners and practiced in Muskegon area for 35 year. Available to a full time student enrolled in MCO who demonstrates high ideals of professionalism and leadership with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $500.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Dr. Robert VanHoven Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Established in 1984 by the family of Dr. VanHoven, this scholarship is available to a third year student in good standing with high ideals of professionalism.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,000.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Dr, Seymour Galina Grant    Back to top

Administered by the American Optometric Association (AOA) Endowment Fund, this scholarship is available to a third year student in good academic standing and in good standing in the AOSA and AOA with demonstrated financial need. Applicant must submit a paper not to exceed 1500 words on a topic regarding financial planning. Submit statement regarding your financial need for the award. Statements relative to your expenses, the type of aid you have previously received, the type of aid you are currently receiving, and the level of indebtedness you anticipate having at the time of your graduation are important items to be included in the statement. Decision made by Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean. National competition with one nominee from each school or college of optometry.

One (1) $2,500 national award offered annually

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Essilor/VariluxStudent Grant Award    Back to top

Originally established by Essilor of America and Varilux. Available to third and fourth year students. Submission of a case report on a patient fit with Varilux lenses. Report judged on: dispensing skill, application to patient's needs, case analysis, and analysis of lens design and lens performance. Report needs to include patient's old and new Rx, occupation, hobbies, and other pertinent data. Maximum length 2000 words. Case report submitted by March 1 to the office of the Associate Dean at the College.

One (1) annual award offered, if appropriate case report submitted, if $1000 plus entry into the national judging. National winner receives all-expenses paid trip for two (student and faculty advisor) to the AOA Congress in June.

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Frank A. Muehlenbeck Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by the Dr. Frank A. Muehlenbeck Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund. Available to a first year student in optometry with demonstrated academic achievement and who demonstrates principles and high ideals of professionalism and leadership.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,000.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Frederick W. Kellogg Scholarship    Back to top

Originating from the family of Frederick W. Kellogg, this scholarship is available to a third year student with a GPA of 3.0 or greater and demonstrated financial need.

One (1) award offered annually. Currently in non-award status.

No application necessary. Selection by Associate Dean, Admissions and Awards Committee.

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John E. Christie Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by the Dr. John E. Christie Memorial Scholarship Fund and is available to any student in optometry with demonstrated academic achievement. Preference may be given to students of color for purposes of ensuring a diverse student body.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,000.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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John L. Howlette and C. Clayton Powell Student Founders Award / Cave Memorial Award / Dr. Robert Johnson's Pediatric / Vision Therapy Award    Back to top

Sponsored by the National Optometric Association. Drs. C. Clayton Powell and the late John L. Howlette were co-founders of the National Optometric Association (NOA). Cave award in memory of three family optometrists. Dr. Robert Johnson Award in memory of the co-founder of the Plano Child Development Center in Chicago. 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year optometry student and current NOSA member in good academic standing at an optometric institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and demonstrates leadership within the profession and community eligible for this scholarship.

One or more students given travel grants from each school or college of optometry. Grants are $1000 nationally for each award and $200 for a travel grant.

Visit www.natoptassoc.org for more information about the three awards and travel grants for attendance at the NAO convention.

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Lula Coker Nash Annual Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by Dr. James A. Nash and Dr. Debra Courtright-Nash, this scholarship is available to any student in optometry with demonstrated financial need. Special consideration should be given for students who: are members of groups that are underrepresented at Ferris State University such as African Americans, Native Americans or Hispanics.

Two (2) annual awards of $1,000 offered.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committees in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Michigan College of Optometry Alumni Scholarship Endowment    Back to top

Originated from the Michigan College of Optometry Alumni Scholarship Endowment Fund and is available to a first year student with demonstrated high ideals of professionalism and leadership with an earned minimum or greater 3.9 GPA.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $800.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Michigan Optometric Association Student of the Year Award    Back to top

Sponsored by Michigan Optometric Association and is available to a third year student with demonstrated outstanding leadership and academic achievement and letters of nomination. Must be a Michigan resident.

one (1) annual award of $100 and an engraved plaque offered.

No application necessary. Nomination by Awards Committee with accompanying letter of recommendation from Associate Dean.

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Midland Lions Roger Maier Scholarship Program    Back to top

Originated at the bequest of Roger Maier to the Midland Lions Club. Roger Maier taught mathematics at Northeast Intermediate School in Midland for 32 years and was interested in helping a student who wishes to pursue an education that will help improve vision. Available to a third or fourth year student. Preference shall be given to students from Midland County, Michigan.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,500.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Robert E. Brand Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Originating from the Dr. Robert E. Brand Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund, this scholarship is available to first year students in optometry with demonstrated academic achievement and demonstrated financial need as determined by Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.

One (1) award offered annually. Award amount varies, but it is generally greater than $1,000.

No application necessary. Selection by Admissions Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Vision Care, Inc. Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by VCI, Inc. a CompBenefits Company. Available to a third year student.

One (1) annual award of $1,000 offered.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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VSP Scholarship Program    Back to top

Originating from the Vision Service Plan, this scholarship is available to third year student members with demonstrated excellence in primary eye care services for patients. In top half of the class by GPA. Commitment to enter the independent practice of optometry. Complete brief interview with Clinic Council members.

The award amount is two (2) annual amounts of $2,500, payable to recipients. An engraved plaque is also awarded.

No application necessary. Selection by Clinic Council in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Wallman Optical Company Scholarship Program    Back to top

Administered by Scholarship Management Services, a department of Scholarship America. Available to second or third year students who are US citizens. See Office of Associate Dean for application. Recipients have no obligation to Walman Optical Company. Required to supply Scholarship America with complete transcripts when requested. Selection by Scholarship America is based on academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience, statement of goals and aspirations, unusual personal or family circumstances and an outside appraisal. April 10 postmark deadline date.

Number of awards vary and range from $500 to $3000.

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Walmart/Sam's Optical Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by the Wal-Mart/Sam's Club Optical Division. Available to a third year student with high scholastic standing with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher, a demonstrated financial need, strong leadership qualities and shows a desire to enter community practice upon graduation and has current/previous experience in community practice. Student must submit an application, which are available in the Office of the Associate Dean. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

One (1) annual award of $1000 given to selected recipient at each school or college of optometry.

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Weeks-Lakin Scholarship    Back to top

Established in memory of Lewis E. Weeks, OD. Available to entering first year optometry student(s), undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher, financial need a consideration, out or in state residency.

Award amount can be split into multiple awards with each generally greater than $1000. Maximum – optometry tuition for one academic year. Variable award based on earnings of endowment.

No application necessary. Selection by Associate Dean, Admissions and Awards Committee.

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Optometry IV Scholarships, Grants, and Awards

The awards and scholarships as described in this section are 4th year awards and most are awarded toward the end of the final rotation. Some of the awards are presented at the time of Commencement. To be given consideration as a potential recipient of a scholarship or award, it is necessary to submit an application in the manner described within the enclosed text related to each scholarship or award. It is essential that the stated deadline be observed. In every case, the deadline specified is the date by which the application must have been received here at the college, not the post marked date. Submission by fax or electronically as an e-mail attachment is acceptable. The fax number is 231-591-2394 and the e-mail address is Peterson@ferris.edu. Contact Colleen at 231-591-3703 for award applications not included in this packet. Please note that all applications are to be directed to the Office of the Associate Dean, unless otherwise stated.


Academic Recognition Award    Back to top

Originally sponsored by MCO, this award is available to a fourth year graduation student with the highest GPA.

One (1) annual award of $250 and an engraved plaque.

No application necessary. Selection by Scholar and Awards Committee in conjunction with Office of the Associate Dean.

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Alcon 4th Year Student Scholarship Award-Case Study    Back to top

Sponsored by Alcon Laboratories, Inc., this award is available to fourth year students. Applicants must submit a case report paper on the use of any Alcon product. (Product examples: Patanol, Vigamox, Tobradex, Azopt, Betoptic S, Travatan, Systane, Opti-Free Express, Clerz Plus Lens Drops, Unique pH, ICaps.) Decision by Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with Associate Dean's Office. See Associate Dean's Office for application details. Please note deadline of January 31 to Associate Dean's Office.

An award of $1000 for best case report submitted by the college. $5000 for the overall best paper selected by Alcon panel.

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Beta Sigma Kappa Silver Medal Award    Back to top

Originally sponsored by Beta Sigma Kappa National Honorary Society, this award is available to a fourth year student with the highest academic achievement based on GPA.

One (1) silver medal awarded annually.

No application necessary. Selection by the Office of the Associate Dean in conjunction with Dr. Michael Cron.

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COVD Award for Excellence in Vision Therapy    Back to top

Sponsored by the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD). Awarded to the fourth year student who has demonstrated a strong interest and clinical skills in the area of vision therapy. To apply, student must have a Vision Therapy/Binocular Vision evaluation form completed by a clinical faculty who worked with them in the area of VT/BV in their fourth year. This form must be returned to the associate Dean's Office by April 1. Also submit other information such as academic achievement, research, other awards, and/or clinical experience that would demonstrate your excellence in the area of vision therapy and/or binocular vision. Decision by the Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

One (1) annual award of an engraved plaque. Sample format mailed with the announcement

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COVD Dr. Martin Kane Student Research Award    Back to top

Originally established by the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD), this award is available to a fourth year student. Applicant must submit a synopsis describing a proposed research project devoted to "Vision and Learning." The applicant must be a student/resident COVD member, have a faculty advisor for the project and proposed completion date for the project. (See Dr. Cron for more details.) Applications for the award program are available from the Associate Dean's Office. The deadline for submission to the COVD is May 15. The selection of the best research project will be the responsibility of COVD.

One (1) annual award offered. Award includes a plaque and a $750 stipend to help defray the costs of the project and travel expenses to present the project at the Scientific Poster Session of the next regularly scheduled COVD Annual Meeting.

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COVD Robert and Marge Wold Annual Meeting Grant    Back to top

Originally sponsored by College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD), this grant is available to a fourth year student who must be a student COVD member and currently receiving financial aid. Applicant must submit an essay describing their interest in behavioral/developmental vision care. (See Associate Dean's Office for application or Dr. Cron for more details)

One (1) annual award offered. Award includes accommodations and meals at the annual COVD meeting.

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Daniel Peterson Memorial Award    Back to top

Originated from the MCO/OSG Award. Available to a fourth year student with outstanding ethical and professional standards.

One (1) award given annually. OSG provides an individual plaque and also has recipient's name engraved on the in-house plaque, which is housed permanently in the College of Optometry. Presented at the Commencement Hooding ceremony by the OSG President or faculty advisor.

No application necessary. Decision made by representatives of OSG.

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Eschenbach Low Vision Student Award    Back to top

Sponsored by Eschenbach Optik of America, this award is available to a fourth year student.

One (1) annual award of an engraved plaque for the college and certificate suitable for framing and complimentary diagnostic tray assortment of illuminated stand magnifiers from Eschenbach.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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Essilor Crizal DCRP Award    Back to top

Sponsored by Essilor of America and Crizal Alize, this scholarship is available to a fourth year student with strong dispensing interest and skills and preferably entering into private practice.

One (1) annual award offered. The Essilor Digital Corneal Reflex Pupilometer is valued at approximately $500.

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Essilor/VariluxStudent Grant Award    Back to top

Originally established by Essilor of America and Varilux. Available to third and fourth year students. Submission of a case report on a patient fit with Varilux lenses. Report judged on: dispensing skill, application to patient's needs, case analysis, and analysis of lens design and lens performance. Report needs to include patient's old and new Rx, occupation, hobbies, and other pertinent data. Maximum length 2000 words. Case report submitted by March 1 to the office of the Associate Dean at the College.

One (1) annual award offered, if appropriate case report submitted, if $1000 plus entry into the national judging. National winner receives all-expenses paid trip for two (student and faculty advisor) to the AOA Congress in June.

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George N. Holcomb Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Established in 1985 through contributions of family, friends and associates of the late George N. Holcomb, distinguished teacher, administrator, and one of the architects of the Michigan College of Optometry. Awarded annually to a graduating optometry student who intends to pursue further education in either a graduate or residency program in preparation for a career in optometric education and/or research.

Application deadline: April 1. Application forms are available from the Associate Dean's Office for those who meet the criteria.

One (1) annual award offered, if appropriate application is received. A cash award of a $1000 minimum to help defray the costs of additional education. Additional compensation at the discretion of the Awards Committee.

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GP Lens Institute Clinical Excellence Award    Back to top

Originated by the GP Lens Institute and member laboratories of the Contact Lens Manufacturers Association (CLMA). Available to a fourth year student who has demonstrated enthusiasm for learning more about GP lens designs and materials, desire to improve their fitting skills, and promote GP use as well as recruiting patients for this lens modality. To apply, student must have the enclosed CL evaluation form completed by a clinical faculty who worked with them in the area of contact lenses in their fourth year. This form must be returned to the Associate Dean's Office by April 1. Also submit other information such as academic achievement, research, other awards, and/or clinical experience that would demonstrate excellence in the area of contact lenses. Decision by the contact lens faculty (Bruce Morgan) and the Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

One (1) annual award of a plaque and certificate for a complimentary GP Diagnostic Lens Set.

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Julius F. Neumueller Award in Optics    Back to top

Originally sponsored by American Academy of Optometry, this award is available to any optometry student. Applicants must submit a paper not to exceed 3,000 words on one of the following topics: Geometrical Optics, Physical Optics, Ophthalmic Optics, or Optics of the Eye. Decision by the Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with Dr. M. Keating. Committee can submit two papers each year with an accompanying letter from the Dean. (See Associate Dean's office for details)

One (1) national winner per year. Award includes a plaque, a cash stipend, plus travel stipend to AAO annual meeting with waived registration fees.

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Marchon Eyewear Practice Management Award    Back to top

Sponsored by Marchon Eyewear, this award is available to a graduating fourth year student.

No application necessary. Decision made by Scholarship and Awards Committee with assistance of the clinic Opticians and in conjunction with the Office of Associate Dean.

One (1) annual award of a cash stipend and an engraved plaque.

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Michigan College of Optometry Senior Research Awards    Back to top

The Michigan College of Optometry gives an award for the best research paper in each of the following areas: Administrative Science, Clinical Optometric Science, Primary Care, Vision Therapy/Binocular Vision, and for the best Original Investigative Work. The MCO Awards Committee reserves the right to reclassify the categories of the papers in order to maximize the distribution of the awards. Senior Research papers should be submitted with the attached research Award application to the associate Dean's Office by April 1. Each recipient in an award category receives $100 plus a certificate.


Secretary's Award for Innovations in Health Promotion    Back to top

Sponsored by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, this award is available to all students enrolled in the OD Program. Applicants must submit a proposal, not to exceed 2500 words or 10 pages. Projects should support the US Department of Health and Human Service's Helathy People 2010 initiative. Approval by faculty advisor and submission to the Office of Associate Dean no later than February 1. Papers which are determined to be of merit and in compliance with the rules will be forwarded to the Association of Schools and Colleges by Optometry by March 1. ASCO selected 10 semi-finalist papers and forwards to US Department of Health and Human Services. Papers are judged by interdisciplinary panel of senior staff that select first, second and third place papers. (See Associate Dean's Office for application details).

Three (3) awards offered nationally. Awards are in three separate amounts: $3500; $2500; and $1500. Recipient and advisor provided awards in Washington DC at a special ceremony. Cost of trip is at government expense.

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The David J. Kerko Low Vision Award    Back to top

Sponsored by the Winchester Optical Company in recognition of David J. Kerko, retired manager of Corning Medical Optics and the co-inventor of the "Glare Control" lenses. He was active in the Low Vision community and the lighthouse organization until his retirement in 2000. Presented to a graduating senior who has demonstrated interest and exceptional clinical proficiency in the area of low vision. To apply, student must have the enclosed Low Vision evaluation form completed by a clinical faculty who worked with them in the area of low vision in their fourth year. This form must be returned to the Associate Dean's Office by April 1. Also submit other information such as academic achievement, research, other awards, and/or clinical experience that would demonstrate your excellence in the area of low vision. Decision by the Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

One (1) annual award of a Dispensing Kit for dispensing Corning Glare Control Lenses.

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Vistakon Award for Excellence in Contact Lens Patient Care    Back to top

Administered by the American Optometric Foundation, this award is available to any graduating fourth year student attending a school or college of optometry in the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Applicant must submit an enclosed CL evaluation form completed by a clinical faculty who worked with you in the area on contact lenses in your fourth year. This form must be returned to the associate Dean's Office by April 1. Also submit other information such as academic achievement, research, other awards, and/or clinical experience that would demonstrate your excellence in the area of contact lenses.

One (1) award given annually to each school or college of optometry. Award includes $1000 and a personalized plaque.

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Walter C. Betts Memorial Scholarship    Back to top

Originated by the Dr. Walter C. Betts Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund. Available to a fourth year student in optometry or graduating student who intends to pursue further education in either a post graduate or residency program. Financial need is not a criterion.

One (1) renewable award given annually. Award amount varies but is generally greater than $1,000.

No application necessary. Selection by Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

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William C. Ezell Fellowship    Back to top

Established in 1949 by the American Optometric Foundation in honor of William C. Ezell, O.D., as a means of providing incentive and opportunity to talented post-graduate researchers who wish to pursue careers in optometric research and education. Available to anyone entering or continuing a full-time, post-graduate (Masters or Ph.D.) course of study and research relating to optometric education provided:

1. The student's study/research is conducted to further prepare one to assume full-time research and teaching at a US school or college of optometry; and

2. The applicant agrees to provide appropriate attribution to the AOF for all published works researched, written or published during which the AOF Fellowship support was received.

Forms are available from the Associate Dean's Office or online at www.aaoptom.org. Application deadline is March 15. Recommendations are made by the Advisory Research Council (ARC) to the Board of Directors of AOF who makes the final decision.

Numer of awards vary on an annual basis nationally. Up to $8000 awarded for one academic year.

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William Feinbloom Low Vision Award    Back to top

Sponsored by designs for Vision, Inc., this award is available to a fourth year student. To apply, student must have the enclosed Low Vision evaluation form completed by a clinical faculty who worked with them in the area of low vision in their fourth year. This form must be returned to the Associate Dean's Office by April 1. Also submit other information such as academic achievement, research, other awards, and/or clinical experience that would demonstrate excellence in the area of low vision. Decision by the Scholarship and Awards Committee in conjunction with the Office of the Associate Dean.

One (1) annual award of a Low Vision Trial Lens Set valued in excess of $1000 and an engraved plaque.

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