The Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama approved the appointment of Dr. Leo Semes as Professor Emeritus in the Department of Optometry and Vision Science.

“Dr. Semes is one of the most beloved individuals that UABSO has known. I can think of no greater honor to recognize all he’s done in the field as an educator, researcher, mentor and colleague,” said Dean Kelly Nichols.

He joined UABSO in 1979 and retired in 2016 and his roles at UABSO included acting as the Chief in the Division of Primary Care Services and serving as Director of Continuing Education for 25 years. At the time of retirement he was serving as professor and director of externships.

During Dr. Semes tenure he contributed significantly to the scientific community, earning a significant reputation for clinical research. He served numerous professional organizations and received a number of awards, including being named one of the Outstanding Intellectuals of the 21st Century.

As stated in the resolution approving his appointment, Dr. Semes is one of the most accomplished and productive academicians at the School of Optometry and the UAB Administration wholeheartedly endorsed recognition of his outstanding achievements with the additional title of Professor Emeritus.

“This appointment, while it may be considered a personal achievement, represents accomplishments that would not have been possible without the environment in which I thrived,” Semes said. As a young faculty member, I was able to help the UABSO program mature as I contributed to the institutional growth.”