Patricia Fulmer, OD, FAAO, a distinguished optometrist at Legacy Vision Center and a 2012 graduate, has been awarded Young Alumnus of the Year by the UAB School of Optometry Alumni Association. Residing in Huntsville, AL, Fulmer has made significant contributions to the field of optometry, both locally and nationally.

"We are blessed to be in a profession that can not only help give the gift of sight but also impact and even save lives through comprehensive eye care," Fulmer said.

This profound belief fuels her dedication to advancing the optometric profession. Fulmer is actively involved in state and national associations, the American Academy of Optometry, and serves as a writer, lecturer, and consultant. Her advocacy for scope expansion in optometry demonstrates her commitment to the field.

Fulmer has held numerous leadership roles, including past secretary/treasurer, vice president, and president of the North Alabama Optometric Association over seven years. She has also served on the Board of Directors for the Alabama Optometric Association (ALOA) for four years, held the position of secretary/treasurer, and is currently the vice president of the ALOA and chairs the ALOA Education Committee. Additionally, she is a Board Member of the UABSO Alumni Association, the Alabama Optometry PAC Board, and the HEALs, Inc. Board as the optometry director.

HEALs, Inc., a non-profit in Huntsville, is particularly meaningful to Fulmer. The organization provides medical, dental, and optometric care to underserved children within their schools, overcoming barriers like transportation.

"I firmly believe that it is our responsibility to give back when we can," she said. While she does not provide direct care in the HEALs schools, Fulmer advises on maintaining high standards in their optometry clinics.

Her lectures cover a range of topics from clinical subjects like glaucoma and macular degeneration to business strategies such as salary negotiation and networking. She has shared her expertise locally and nationally, drawing from her extensive experience in tertiary care and practice ownership.

Through her dedication to optometry and community service, Fulmer exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Young Alumnus of the Year award, inspiring peers and future optometrists alike.