A 1979 graduate of the UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham) School of Optometry was sworn in as president of the 34,000-member American Optometric Association (AOA) this week at the group’s 109th annual meeting in Las Vegas. Thomas Crooks III, O.D., of Birmingham, is the first Alabama-based optometrist to lead the national organization. His term is for one year.

June 26, 2006

Birmingham, Ala. - A 1979 graduate of the UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham) School of Optometry was sworn in as president of the 34,000-member American Optometric Association (AOA) this week at the group’s 109th annual meeting in Las Vegas.

Thomas Crooks III, O.D., of Birmingham, is the first Alabama-based optometrist to lead the national organization. His term is for one year.

“This is a tremendous step for Dr. Crooks, individually, and a great milestone for the UAB School of Optometry and for the growth of the profession in Alabama,” said Dean John F. Amos, O.D. “To anyone who has closely followed Dr. Crooks’ career, this is a natural step. His commitment to the profession and dedication to his patients has always been evident.”

Crooks has been heavily involved in professional organizations at all levels, and in 1985 was named Alabama Optometrist of the Year. In 1990, he also was UAB School of Optometry Alumnus of the Year.

As the premier authority in the optometric profession, AOA’s mission is to improve the quality and availability of eye and vision care everywhere. It’s members practice in 6,500 U.S. communities, providing over two thirds of all primary eye care in the country.



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Thomas Crooks III, O.D. (pictured), of Birmingham, is the first Alabama-based optometrist to become president of the American Optometric Association. He is a 1979 graduate of the UAB School of Optometry.

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Thomas Crooks III, O.D. (pictured), of Birmingham, is the first Alabama-based optometrist to become president of the American Optometric Association. He is a 1979 graduate of the UAB School of Optometry.