2013

ESFA Chairman Robert Field presents the Visionary Award to Dr. Mike Callahan, son of Dr. Alston Callahan.

Dr. Alston Callahan

Dr. Alston Callahan became the sixth recipient of the Visionary Award during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the facility that bears his name, the UAB Callahan Eye Hospital. The award was presented posthumously in recognition of his wisdom, leadership, and dedication to making his dream of providing top quality eye care and research for the benefit of all citizens of Birmingham and beyond come true.

2011

ESFA board chairman Steve Yoder, past ESFA chairman Jim Davis, Dr. Kline, and past ESFA chairman and Visionary Award recipient Allen Rushton

Lanning B. Kline, M.D.

For his extraordinary leadership as Chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Alabama School of Medicine and the impact he has made on improving eyesight throughout the state and beyond through the Department’s teaching, research, clinical and service activities. www.uab.edu/eyedoc/ 

Hall Williams Thompson

Hall Williams Thompson

Given posthumously for his steadfast determination, leadership and generosity in supporting efforts to provide quality eye care to all Alabamians, but especially for the state’s most vulnerable citizens – our underserved children.

2010

Allen Rushton flanked by fellow Trustees Hartwell Davis, left, and Hall Thompson, right

Allen D. Rushton

For his longtime support, leadership and dedication to the mission of the EyeSight Foundation of Alabama, including many years of service as Chairman of the Grants Committee, and also to Eye Foundation, Inc., including service as Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

2009

Alie B. Gorrie

Alie B. Gorrie

For her compassion, vision and determination in creating Songs for Sight, a unique musical celebration that raises awareness and funds to support the ongoing clinical and research activities of the UAB Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation and its Low Vision Support Group, Orientation and Mobility Services and Low Vision Equipment Program for young adults in need.
www.songsforsight.org

2007

Jeff Haddox, President, CEO and Founder of Sight Savers Alabama (now Sight Savers America)

Sight Savers of Alabama (now Sight Savers America)

For its phenomenal success in providing comprehensive eye care for thousands of at-risk children throughout the state through a network of referrals, providers and other eye care professionals, improving vision among those whose eye care needs otherwise would go untreated. www.sightsaversamerica.org