MEMPHIS, Tenn.—The Southern College of Optometry (SCO) presented American Optometric Association (AOA), president Ronald L. Hopping, OD, MPH, an honorary Doctor of Ocular Science degree during its 2013 commencement ceremony, Friday, May 17. With this honor he continues in the footsteps of his father, Richard L. Hopping, OD, DOS, DSc, a 1952 SCO graduate who received the same honorary degree 40 years ago, also during his tenure as president of the AOA.

A 1978 graduate of the Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO), the recently honored younger Hopping earned his Master of Public Health from the University in Texas in 1982. He has been honored as an outstanding faculty member by the University of Houston College of Optometry, earned a distinguished service award from SCCO and has received Presidents’ Awards for Outstanding Service from 10 different state optometric association presidents. In addition to receiving the honorary degree, Hopping also delivered the commencement address to this year’s SCO graduates.