by Satina Richardson

Kathryn Trammell was awarded the Dean’s Outstanding Staff award for her work managing continuing education (CE) at the UAB School of Optometry. Her efforts help ensure that optometrists keep their licenses current year after year.

With each learning opportunity, she is behind the scenes, ensuring every “t” is crossed and every “i” dotted. Trammell ensures proper communication is sent on time, coordinates people and places, grades tests, submits information to the Council on Optometric Practitioner Education, and so on.

“My job is rewarding because it's so important for practicing optometrists to remain up to date on the latest trends and technologies in eye care so they can provide the best care to their patients,” Trammell said. “I enjoy getting to be a small part of their lifetime learning and providing a connection back to the UAB School of Optometry.”

Trammell works with Dr. Katie Clore, the CE director.  A team of one, she plans weekend-long events for hundreds of optometrists around the southeast and supports entities outside the school hosting their own CE events too.

Her job was particularly challenging in 2020. During the pandemic’s early days, eye doctors still needed CE hours. This meant an immediate pivot to online programming.

“Kathryn rose to the occasion, keeping a close eye on the newly mandated state requirements, and created online learning opportunities for our constituents,” said Dean Kelly Nichols. “She is committed to excellence in every way and remains calm in any storm. Kathryn clearly understands and appreciates the importance of her responsibilities.”

During her tenure at UAB optometry, Trammell has successfully executed 75 events.

A talented event planner who has a penchant for problem-solving and making considerate and objective decisions, she is always willing to lend a helping hand to colleagues. For these reasons and many more, Trammell was selected to as this year’s recipient of the 2023 Dean’s Outstanding Staff award.