|
News Releases / Full Story
June 2, 2008
Karen O ’Connor Named “Para of the Year”
Local Recipient Serves Communities of Portage and Montello
Local paraoptometric Karen O’Connor has been awarded the Para of the Year for 2008 by the Wisconsin Paraoptometric Association. Ms. O’Connor is the site coordinator for Davis Duehr Dean locations in both Portage and Montello. She is responsible for all aspects of clinical, administrative and optical operations at both sites.
For more than 16 years, Ms. O’Connor has gained experience by serving in almost every position at the clinic, which has made her a thorough and patient teacher for new staff members. Colleague Sue Sherratt says Karen’s patients know their care is her top priority.
“She keeps up with clinical advances and is constantly making sure patients are getting the proper testing,” says Sherratt. “She works every day to make sure the patient schedule moves smoothly. She is compassionate and empathetic to the needs of both her patients and her coworkers.”
Karen is closely involved with the Voluntary Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH), an international service program. She has shared her optical skills in eyeglass mission programs with the people of Mexico and three times with the residents of the Dominican Republic. Dennis Harkins, O.D., says Karen then shares the experiences with her community back home.
“She is always willing to do the preparatory work in categorizing glasses for the trips, has learned retinoscopy and is a tireless worker under third world working conditions,” says Harkins. “Upon her return, she explains the cultures and traditions of the people she serves with our local schools and community. ”
Ms. O’Connor was awarded the 2008 Para of the Year during the President’s Banquet at the 35th Annual Spring Convention of the Wisconsin Paraoptometric Association. To speak with Karen or her colleagues, please contact Dean Health System Communications Manager Melissa Wollering at (608) 250-1504.
lead to an external site |