Why I Attend the Orbital Gala

"The Orbital Gala is a way to give back to the Foundation that does so much for supporting education, thus ensuring that the public can obtain the best possible eye care. It's an honor to be a small part of this huge endeavor. It's also a lot of fun reconnecting with friends and meeting many of the Academy leaders."
Robert F. Melendez, MD, MBA
Chair, Young Ophthalmologist Committee
Editor-in-Chief, the ONE Network

The young ophthalmologists turned out in force!

"The Academy Foundation does amazing things for ophthalmology. It's an honor to support the Foundation by attending the Orbital Gala, and I look forward to celebrating with colleagues at this year's event. I encourage young ophthalmologists to check it out – it's a great, informal opportunity to network with Academy leaders, give back to our profession and have a lot of fun!"
Andrew P. Doan, MD, PhD
Deputy Editor-in-Chief, the ONE Network

"The Orbital Gala – where else can you let your hair down with your colleagues, bid on an eclectic mix of jewelry, artwork and travel, and all the while support the educational and humanitarian mission of the Foundation?  I encourage my colleagues to become part of this annual tradition."
Tamara R. Fountain, MD
Secretary for Member Services

Painting the town red: Chita Abbott, Janet Wright and Tamara Fountain

"Where else can you find a great band, cool silent auction items, no long-winded speeches, and the opportunity to make a donation to the nonprofit that is most critical to our profession's future?  Only at the Orbital Gala.  Bring some friends and have a fun, relaxing evening."
David W. Parke II, MD
Academy CEO

Renowned author Robin Cook, MD, autographs one of his bestsellers for a lucky silent auction winner

"Get ready for a party with great food and dancing! The Orbital Gala is a great event! It's a chance to connect with friends in a fun venue for a wonderful cause – our Academy Foundation! So grab your friends and come to the gala this year! I wouldn't miss it!"
Christie L. Morse, MD
Chair, Foundation Advisory Board

Gavin Herbert, Dunbar Hoskins, Paul Orloff and Christie Morse have fun at the cocktail reception

"The Orbital Gala is the event of the Annual Meeting! I love to celebrate with my colleagues at a great venue with dinner, dancing and the fabulous silent auction. Even better, this terrific event supports the global educational programs of the Academy Foundation."
Ruth D. Williams, MD
2012 Academy President

Catching up with colleagues: Greg Skuta, Anne Coleman, Tom Hutchinson, Ruth Williams and Steve Gieser

"The Orbital Gala is always a highlight of the Annual Meeting for me: quality time with friends, a built-in opportunity to meet new people, and a great way to give back by supporting the mission of the Academy Foundation."
Anne L. Coleman, MD, PhD
Secretary for Quality of Care
Director, H. Dunbar Hoskins Jr., MD Center for Quality Eye Care 

"My wife Kathy and I enjoy attending the Orbital Gala each year.  It is a chance to connect with friends, enjoy a wonderful meal and support the Academy Foundation.  It has become an important part of our Annual Meeting experience and more importantly a way to increase our support for the Foundation's mission."
Harry A. Zink, MD
2006 Academy President
Chair, Senior Ophthalmologist Committee

Bid on travel, wine, ophthalmic equipment, fashion accessories and more at our popular silent auction

"The Orbital Gala has become the event to attend at the Academy's Annual Meeting.  Not only is it a great dinner and dance, but the entertainment has been top-notch as well.  Even better, it raises money for the Academy Foundation.  The silent auction items have been truly memorable.  Bill and Alice Lea Tasman are to be congratulated for throwing a great party year after year."
Randolph L. Johnston, MD
2010 Academy President

"The Annual Meeting is a three-ring circus for most ophthalmologists. My spouse and I look forward to the Orbital Gala as an island of serenity with friends, music and dancing to benefit the great work of the Foundation and important service programs like EyeCare America."
Richard P. Mills, MD, MPH
1995 Academy President
Chair, EyeCare America