The New England College of Optometry (NECO) has announced a new permanently endowed scholarship in honor of Richard Laudon, OD, a longtime faculty member and 1975 graduate. The scholarship, funded by Dr. Laudon, will support a final-year optometry student pursuing a career in binocular vision with a focus on vision therapy.

Dr. Laudon dedicated 42 years to NECO as a faculty member, serving on multiple committees and as faculty chair before retiring as a tenured associate professor. His expertise in pediatric optometry and vision therapy influenced generations of students, particularly in the treatment of children with learning difficulties and individuals recovering from concussions, NECO shares. He also played a key role in establishing NECO’s reputation for comprehensive pediatric eye care and vision therapy in the Boston area.

“The pediatric department at NECO would not be the same without Dr. Laudon’s influence on the field of binocular vision and vision therapy,” explains professor of optometry and director of residencies Nicole Quinn, OD, FAAO. “His decades of work and commitment to helping patients, especially children with learning difficulties, has paved the way for NECO’s current partnerships and our reputation for providing comprehensive pediatric eye care and vision therapy services for the children of Boston.”

“Our students and patients have all experienced the positive impact of Dr. Laudon’s work,” shares NECO president and CEO Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO. “I remember my own rotation through his pediatric clinic, and seeing his journey and practice grow over the decades has been a real honor. This scholarship is an inspiring testament to not only Dr. Laudon’s clinical achievements but his ability to support students along their path.”