Julie A. Schornack, OD, MEd.

  
FULLERTON, Calif.—Marshall B. Ketchum University (MBKU), an independent, private, non-profit, accredited educational institution located here, will inaugurate Julie A. Schornack, OD, MEd as the next president to helm the university. Dr. Schornack will be the university’s second president since its expansion and name change in 2013, and she is also its first female president. Today, MBKU includes three primary schools: Southern California College of Optometry offering a Doctor of Optometry and a Master of Science in Vision Science degree; School of Physician Assistant Studies providing students a Master of Medical Science degree; and its College of Pharmacy which offers a Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

A highly attended inauguration event was held Friday, April 28, 2023. The event welcomed over 200 guests including faculty, students, local dignitaries, family and friends to honor the university’s second president. The ceremony was followed by a 10-year anniversary celebration at the MBKU campus, which commemorated the milestone of the university’s expansion and name change in 2013.

“Dr. Julie A. Schornack is a tremendous leader who brings decades of achievement to the profession and our institution,” said Dr. Lynn Gabriel, chair of the MBKU Board of Trustees. “She has served Southern California College of Optometry and MBKU for over 35 years as an optometrist, educator and administrator and deeply embodies the caring and innovative character of this institution. The Board of Trustees is delighted to partner with president Schornack as she establishes her vision for the next phase of MBKU’s future.”

Dr. Schornack is inspired by the past and focused on the future—bringing a deep connection with the university, its students and faculty to the forefront of her vision for MBKU, according to an announcement from the University. Her previous experience in the education and health care fields bring a unique perspective and help shape her identity as a strong leader.

Dr. Schornack received her optometry degree from the Illinois College of Optometry in 1984 and went on to earn her Master of Education at Pacific University College of Optometry.

Dr. Schornack began her time at MBKU as an assistant professor at the Cornea and Contact Lens Service and was involved in high-level contact lens research. She joined MBKU in 1986 and has served in a variety of positions including associate dean of clinical education, vice president of clinical affairs for SCCO and most recently senior vice president and chief of staff for the university.

Dr. Schornack’s inauguration will celebrate the university’s first female president and honor its history by commemorating MBKU’s commitment to its roots in Orange County and its evolution over time—including the development of the university to include the School of Physician Assistant Studies and the College of Pharmacy as well as Dr. Schornack’s vision for continuing to provide rigorous and immersive academic programs that teach, train and graduate the health care leaders of tomorrow.

“I am honored to be inaugurated as the second president of Marshall B. Ketchum University,” said Dr. Schornack. “This is a place I’ve called home as an optometrist and educator for nearly 40 years, and it’s a place I love. I look forward to working alongside MBKU’s incredible faculty, staff and administrators to prepare our exceptional students to become thoughtful and engaged health care providers. MBKU has a bright and exciting future ahead, and I am thrilled to be a part of this compelling new chapter in the history of the institution.”

For more information about the event and to RSVP click here.

To learn more about Marshall B. Ketchum University click here.