David W. Parke II, MD, named president of American Academy of Ophthalmology

San Francisco-As of Jan. 1, David W. Parke II, MD, assumed the role of president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), taking over from the departing president C.P. Wilkinson, MD. Dr. Parke's other leadership roles include the Edward L. Gaylord professor, chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Oklahoma, and chief executive officer of the Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK.

"There has never been a more exciting time for ophthalmology as medical advances give ophthalmologists breakthrough treatment options to save vision," said Dr. Parke. "Ophthalmology is also faced with challenges ranging from Medicare reimbursement to scope of practice. I look forward to serving the academy and its members in the year ahead."

Dr. Parke has held several positions with the AAO. He has served on the academy's board of trustees since 2000, as trustee-at-large from 2000 to 2001, and as senior secretary for ophthalmic practice from 2002 to 2006. Academy committees he has served on include the instruction advisory committee, nominating committee, awards committee, and bylaws and rules committee.

"Few leaders come to this presidency post with this much experience and dedication to the Academy and the profession," said H. Dunbar Hoskins Jr., MD, executive vice president of the academy. "We are thrilled to have Dr. Parke lead us through this year."

Dr. Parke achieved his medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and completed his residency at the Cullen Eye Institute, followed by a fellowship in medical retina and a subsequent fellowship in surgical retina.