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By: UPIKE Public Relations | January 11, 2019
Katherine Dronka, O.D., ABCMO, assistant professor of optometry at the University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Optometry, has earned the distinction of Fellow with the American Academy of Optometry (AAO).
The national membership organization is dedicated to education and cutting-edge research in the art and science of optometry. In addition to offering professionals continuing education opportunities throughout the year and at annual meetings, AAO also gives members a network of peers dedicated to advancing vision care.
Dronka, who joined KYCO in the summer of 2018, received her bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and her Doctor of Optometry from Inter-American University of Puerto Rico. She completed her residency in Ocular Disease from the John D. Dingell VAMC in Detroit. Dronka is also the inaugural fellow of Ocular Disease and Optometric Surgery through the Rosenburg School of Optometry. Fellows with AAO are the top scientists, educators, librarians and administrators in the field.
“I believe the pursuit of education and professional development is not only necessary to grow as a person, but essential in order to contribute and give back to our expanding optometric profession,” said Dronka. “I believe that, by achieving this distinction, I have the opportunity to stay current in future medical advancements. This honor allows me to provide the highest quality of care to the Appalachian community. It has been a lifelong goal to become a Fellow of the AAO, and I am very blessed to have the opportunity to represent the organization and to be a team member of the KYCO family.”
As a fellow, Dronka will not only receive professional development but will contribute her expertise to an organization dedicated to elevating patient care. Michael Bacigalupi, O.D., M.S., FAAO, dean of KYCO, says for students, learning from Dronka and the research provided by AAO will be invaluable.
“This level of achievement only further demonstrates Dr. Dronka’s commitment to the field of optometry, the future of patient care and to the next generation of optometrists,” said Bacigalupi. “This distinction will only elevate the already high-level education students receive at KYCO. We are proud to have Dr. Dronka as part of our team!”