It’s hard to believe that 2025 is finally here. We’ve been looking forward to this for a long time, as this is the year we celebrate the 100^th anniversary of our department. We welcomed new faculty members in the past year, while our researchers continue to break new ground on projects focused on AI, inherited eye diseases and more.  

We started planning for our department’s 100^th anniversary long ago, and we’re excited that 2025 is finally here. We plan on sending out stories, videos and alumni interviews throughout the year that highlight the major accomplishments of the department. We are hosting a Centennial Celebration in conjunction with our annual Iowa Eye meeting and alumni reunion starting on the evening of Thursday, June 12^th and going through Saturday, June 14^th.  We’ve already had a good number of alumni register to join us for these events. Whether you can make it or not, we welcome alumni to record a short message about a memory from their time at Iowa. 

This year we welcome Drs. Tina Hendricks (R ‘24) and Tahreem Mir to our faculty as Assistant Professors. Dr. Hendricks finished her residency at Iowa in June of 2024 before seeking new educational opportunities in Africa and South Dakota. She will join our comprehensive and cataract service. Dr. Mir, the newest member of our retina service, joins us after completing her residency at the Yale School of Medicine and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at Vanderbilt University. She also completed a a post-doctoral research fellowship at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she served as Associate Director of the Retinal Imaging Research and Reading Center. 

2024 was a landmark year for breakthroughs in ophthalmology research. Our department has been at the forefront of several transformative advancements. Notably, our researchers have contributed to groundbreaking studies in corneal endothelial disease and diabetic macular edema, as well as using artificial intelligence to identify patterns in retinal layers, analyzing retina texture and diagnosing eye disease. There have also been advances in understanding genetic mutations in inherited eye diseases. We also have clinical trials in cornea, retina and thyroid eye disease. This research is pushing the boundaries of science and shaping the future of eye care. 

Our commitment to advocacy was highlighted at the American Academy of Ophthalmology's Mid-Year Forum in Washington, D.C. Our residents, serving as "Advocacy Ambassadors," had the privilege of meeting with key policymakers to discuss critical issues affecting our field. It was particularly inspiring to see Dr. Aaron Dotson (R ‘24) recognized for his outstanding work in promoting diversity and inclusion. 

As we look forward to 2025, we remain committed to our mission of excellence in patient care, research, and education. I am confident that with the continued support of our alumni, we will achieve even greater heights. Your contributions and engagement are invaluable to our success, and I encourage you to stay connected with us. 

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to the University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of countless individuals. 

Wishing you a prosperous new year, 

         Keith Carter 
.        Chair, University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences