UNC Ophthalmology congratulates Department Chair and Kittner Family Distinguished Professor Donald L. Budenz, MD, MPH, for receiving the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)’s 2022 Life Achievement Honor Award. Among eight highly achieved ophthalmologists worldwide, Dr. Budenz was awarded this career honor at a ceremony held at the AAO’s Annual Meeting (AAO 2022) in October 2022. 
Each year, the AAO’s Nominating Committee and Board of Trustees narrow a list of distinguished nominees in voting to select honorary recipients across each of the AAO’s 17 awards categories. Awardees are traditionally selected for their service to a range of focus areas in ophthalmology, among them: 1) scientific and educational programs; 2) commitment to advocacy; 3) humanitarian excellence; 4) global impact; and 4) blindness prevention worldwide. The Life Achievement Honor Award is given annually to 6 – 8 AAO members for their contributions to its scientific and educational programs and to the profession of ophthalmology.
The mission of the American Academy of Ophthalmology is to protect sight and empower lives by serving as an advocate for patients and the public, leading ophthalmic education, and advancing the profession of ophthalmology. The organization represents a global community of 32,000 physician members and is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons.
* This feature was highlighted in the UNC School of Medicine’s November 10th, 2022 issue of Vital Signs.