The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) has announced its 2026 award recipients, recognizing ophthalmologists, researchers and organizations for their contributions to advancing eye care, education, research and patient advocacy.
The honors were presented throughout the Academy’s 130th annual meeting, held Oct. 9-12 in New Orleans, with recipients representing a broad range of ophthalmic specialties, from glaucoma and corneal surgery to retina, pediatric ophthalmology and neuro-ophthalmology.
Among the most prestigious distinctions was the Laureate Recognition Award, the Academy’s highest honor, presented to George L. Spaeth, during the meeting’s opening session Oct. 10. The award recognizes exceptional contributions to ophthalmology and is determined by the Academy Laureate Selection Committee.
The Academy also recognized Richard L. Abbott; Dale E. Fajardo; Peter R. Laibson; and Gregory L. Skuta, as its 2026 Guests of Honor, selected by Academy President Christopher J. Rapuano.
Celebrating clinical and scientific contributions
Several prominent ophthalmologists delivered honorary lectures exploring developments and challenges across their respective specialties.
Janet Louise Davis received the Jackson Memorial Lecture Award and delivered a presentation titled "Predicting the Future of Uveitis," while Louis R. Pasquale presented the Robert N. Shaffer Lecture, "Exfoliation Glaucoma Reframed."
In retinal research, Mark S. Humayun delivered the Arnall Patz Lecture, "Retinal Implants to Restore Sight," examining approaches to vision restoration through retinal implant technologies.
Richard F. Spaide delivered the Charles L. Schepens Lecture, "The Joy of Seeing," during Retina Subspecialty Day.
Corneal surgery also featured prominently. Vincenzo Sarnicola delivered the Castroviejo Lecture, "Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty: Not Just for Keratoconus Anymore," while José Gomes presented the Whitney G. Sampson Lecture on global consensus in keratoconus management.
Elsewhere, Lucia Sobrin delivered the C. Stephen and Frances Foster Lecture on Uveitis and Immunology, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune retinopathy.
Recognizing education, innovation and advocacy
The Academy also highlighted achievements in ophthalmic education and professional development.
Saraswathy Ramanathan received the Straatsma Award for Excellence in Resident Education, which will be formally presented at the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology’s annual meeting in January 2027.
Jacob A. Kanter received the Troutman Prize, recognizing the scientific merit of a young author published in the Ophthalmology family of journals. His accompanying lecture examined early postoperative conjunctival complications associated with surgically implanted CorNeat EverPatch devices.
Meanwhile, Arthur Brant received the Artemis Award, recognizing his contributions as a young ophthalmologist. Brant was presented with the award during the Sunday session titled “YO Program Part 1—If the Shoe Fits: Choosing the Best Practice Setting for You.”
The Academy also acknowledged individuals advancing access to eye care and supporting the ophthalmic profession.
Renee Bovelle received the Outstanding Advocate Award for more than a decade of advocacy at state, regional and national levels, while Matthew S. Oliva and Dmytro Pavlenko received Outstanding Humanitarian Service Awards. Oliva was recognized for his work addressing preventable blindness and supporting future eye care leaders, while Pavlenko was honored for his dedication to patients under dangerous and challenging circumstances in Ukraine.
The Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology received the Distinguished Service Award for its longstanding commitment to international collaboration, education and eliminating preventable blindness.
Finally, the Knights Templar Eye Foundation was recognized for its contribution of at least $1 million to the Academy Foundation, supporting a new virtual reality simulation fund for pediatric ophthalmology. The Academy stated that it appreciates and acknowledges “Knights Templar leaders for their tremendous support, commitment, and partnership in providing the single largest gift in Foundation history.”
Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology.
