Dr. Ron Blum receiving an honorary degree from Dr. Bart Campbell, SCO's VP  for academic affairs.

MEMPHIS, Tenn.—Southern College of Optometry has bestowed its prestigious honorary degree, the doctor of ocular science, on Ronald Blum, OD, at its 2019 commencement ceremony, held here Friday. The college recognized Dr. Blum for his significant contributions to the field of optometry. A distinguished entrepreneur, Blum is the mind behind companies such as The Egg Factory, NewSight Reality, PogoTec, Innotech, and Dr. Blum, Newman, Blackstock and Associates and Optometrists, P.C., among others. A 1972 graduate of SCO, Blum also delivered the commencement address.

“Dr. Blum’s impressive career is an inspiration to any optometrist, and it’s especially relevant to our young graduates as they embark upon their own careers,” said Lewis Reich, OD, president of SCO. “Even more heartening is the nature of his efforts, each one of which is an active pursuit to improve sight.”

A serial entrepreneur and inventor, Blum is an innovator in the world of optics, owning more than 750 patents worldwide. Blum has collaborated on several field-changing products, including eye drops that treat presbyopia; lenses that block blue light to prevent macular degeneration; and Definity, a popular, digitally surfaced progressive addition lens from Essilor.

In 1977, Blum started his own independent optometry practice in Roanoke, Va., which has since become one of the largest multi-location, private professional practices in the Southeastern U.S. He also serves on the board of trustees at Roanoke College.