Gerald Simon, OD, the associate dean for Student Affairs at the UAB School of Optometry, has been named 2022 Optometrist of the Year by the National Optometric Association.

Simon, the associate dean of Student Affairs, also received the Dean's Distinguished Service award in 2022 to acknowledge his leadership, service to the community and the optometric profession, along with his role as a mentor to minority students.

"I am grateful for my career and I find purpose in encouraging young minorities to pursue the optometric profession," Simon said. "I am happy to give back to a profession that has beautifully impacted my life."