National leaders comment on eye institute, Dr. Truhlsen












Hopeful announcement


Above is a photo slideshow from Wednesday’s news conference to announce plans for the Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute. (Photos by Andrew E. Nelson, UNMC public relations)




UNMC will soon be in position to be a world leader in ophthalmologic clinical care, research and education thanks to a gift from a legend in the field.

On Wednesday, medical center leaders announced plans to construct the Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute on the UNMC campus. The plans go before the University of Nebraska Board of Regents on Friday.

The 47,000-square-foot clinic — which will allow UNMC to conduct the most advanced clinical eye care and research in the region — is made possible by a gift from Dr. Truhlsen, a longtime UNMC faculty member and legendary Omaha ophthalmologist.

“The University of Nebraska Medical Center is so very fortunate to have Dr. Truhlsen involved in making our dream for a world class eye institute come true,” said Mike Yanney, who along with wife, Gail Walling-Yanney, M.D., co-chairs the UNMC Campaign Committee for Campaign for Nebraska. “He achieved excellence in his career and now brings it to his legacy at UNMC.”

Below, national leaders in vision care comment on Dr. Truhlsen and the new eye-clinic, which is expected to open by 2012.

“Throughout his career, Stan has been an unassuming but visible spokesman for ethical practice and quality eye care, quietly and effectively leading by reason and example. Few will ever match Stan Truhlsen’s sterling example of generosity and selflessness or his wisdom in how to effectively direct major medical philanthropy for the prevention of blindness.” — B. Thomas Hutchinson, M.D., chairman, The Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology

“To know Stan Truhlsen is to know a magnificent human being. Always unassuming, Stan has been a leader at every level of medicine and ophthalmology. His commitment to colleagues and community is manifest by leadership positions in social and professional organizations. Stan is passionate about family, friends and quality ophthalmology. His consummate generosity is legendary. This latest contribution will stimulate ophthalmology in Nebraska as no other could.” — Bruce E. Spievey, M.D., President, International Council of Ophthalmology, San Francisco

“The intelligence, charm, organizational skills, and generosity of Dr. Stanley Truhlsen have resulted in his establishing friendships with a multitude of members of the entire international eye care community, where he is recognized as one of the most important figures in our specialty.” — Charles P. Wilkinson, M.D., Chairman, Department of Ophthalmology, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University

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