Dr. Bud Falkenhain.
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NEW YORK—VOSH International has selected Dr. Bud Falkenhain for its 2018 Harry I. Zeltzer Lifetime Achievement Award. Falkenhain was cited for his “passionate pioneering and visionary leadership throughout the years in the establishment of VOSH and well beyond.” He will receive the VOSH Lifetime Achievement at the VOSH 26th Annual Meeting October 12 to 13 in Montreal, Canada. Involved with discussions of early pioneers of the VOSH humanitarian nonprofit organization that had grown to 84 chapters worldwide, Falkenhain accepted an invitation by VOSH founder Dr. Franklin Harms in 1977 to go in a trip to Nicaragua. The second president of VOSH/International in 1981 to 1983, he helped to form the framework that has propelled VOSH through its chapters and programs to be serve millions through the years. Of his VOSH missions and their impact, Falkenhain said, “ A VOSH mission can be a life changing experience, not only for the person receiving the care, but also for the person giving the care.”

An inspiration and mentor to many in his humanitarian efforts, Falkenhain, a private practitioner in Rolla, Mo., has been a key leader in the industry and active member in associations within the field. His leadership and recognition includes OD of the Year of the Missouri Optometric Association, presidencies of VOSH/International, VOSH-Missouri, Heart of America Contact Lens Society, and Missouri Board of Optometry. Recognized for his work, Falkenhain received the Presidents Volunteer Action Award at a White House Luncheon hosted by President Ronald Reagan.

Falkenhain also was awarded The Service Above Self Award by Rotary International and Edward Dahlstrom Distinguished Service Award by the Rolla Lions Club. Falkenhain received a Doctor of Optometry from Southern College of Optometry.

The VOSH Annual meeting brings together chapters, including professionals and lay volunteers, to share experiences and gain the latest in humanitarian and vision efforts in actively confronting the challenges of the global eye care crisis.

Information on attending and registering for the VOSH Annual meeting in Montreal can be found on the VOSH.org website by clicking annual meeting and selecting the 26th Annual Meeting in Montreal.