Bernard Blaustein Resident of the Year Award for the Residency Class of 2020
Bhawan Minhas, OD, FAAO, director, On-Campus Residency Programs recently announced the recipients of the Bernard Blaustein Resident of the Year Award for the Residency Class of 2020. The award is presented annually to a distinguished Pennsylvania College of Optometry resident who has shown exceptional clinical promise and aptitude during their residency year. “In the spirit of Dr. Blaustein, who has always been an example of clinical expertise and collegiality, individuals considered for this award are recognized for their clinical acumen, thirst for knowledge, willingness to share their knowledge for the benefit of improved patient care, and outstanding growth during their residency training,” noted Dr. Minhas.
“This year, we had seven outstanding nominations and it was a difficult decision for the selection committee to choose only one, as they are all deserving of this award,” said Dr. Minhas. “We are happy to announce that this year, the selection committee has chosen TWO award recipients.”
Dr. Chad Killen, On-Campus Low Vision Resident, The Eye Institute, Philadelphia
Dr. Jessica Vickery, Off-Campus Ocular Disease/Specialty Contact Lens Resident, Midatlantic Cornea Consultants, York, Pa.
Below are some qualities that were mentioned in the nomination letters for each recipient.
Dr. Sarah Bell wrote in her nomination letter for Dr. Jessica Vickery - "This is our first year as a contact lens and cornea residency, which Dr. Vickery took on as a challenge full force. She helped keep us organized and on time with deadlines for our accreditation materials, and she acclimated quickly to a fast paced highly medical corneal practice. Dr. Vickery’s ability to adapt in unforeseen circumstances is extraordinary and I think it is safe to say we would not have been able to adapt to the changes in the last year without her help."
Dr. Sarah Appel wrote the following on Chad Killen’s letter - "During his residency, he has eagerly sought out adaptive technology resources that address our patients' complex visual issues. He has shared his knowledge of these valuable resources with patients, interns and staff.
“I am so honored to be awarded with the Bernard Blaustein Resident of the Year Award,” said Dr. Killen. “Dr. Blaustein’s great rapport with his patients and dedication to continued learning are qualities I strive to embody as an optometrist. My residency has been full of challenges, but with every difficult clinical case and late night comes amazing learning opportunities. I will be forever grateful to my co-residents, attending doctors, and all of the staff at The Eye Institute for encouraging me to think critically and become a better clinician.”
Dr. Vickery sent a note of thanks on her selection as a recipient of the award noting in particular, her mentors, Dr. Sarah Bell and Dr. Sudeep Pramanik. “They continuously worked with me to enhance my patient management skills as well as my academic endeavors. It is a surreal feeling to receive an award in honor of Dr. Bernard Blaustein that reflects his commitment to optometry and dedication to improving patient care,” wrote Dr. Vickery.
Please join us in congratulating Drs. Killen and Vickery for this prestigious award. Thank you to all of the residents, residency program supervisors, and faculty for another successful year!
Please see the congratulation videos below from their nominators: