In 2024, the International Retinal Research Foundation (IRRF) pledged $1.5 million, taking the first step in establishing an endowed Chair in Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), honoring Michael A. Callahan, MD. This type of endowment is among the most prestigious and meaningful gifts that can be made to or accepted by an academic institution. An endowed chair recognizes a senior-level faculty member’s continued contributions and provides funds to push the frontiers of scholarship. The funds will be used to propel research, in addition to creating opportunities for scholars to collaborate across the world.
Dr. Callahan is an experienced ocular and oculoplastic surgeon and has held a faculty position as professor of Ophthalmology in the UAB Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences since 1998. Dr. Callahan also serves as director of Oculoplastic Services at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics, where he teaches intricate surgical procedures of phacoemulsification and intraocular lens insertion and lectures on ophthalmic plastic surgery. He has served as a leader in healthcare and is widely regarded as a pioneer in ocular and oculoplastic surgery. In recognition of the impact on the education of a generation of ophthalmologists, the careers of pioneering researchers, and the sight of countless patients, Dr. Callahan was inducted into the Alabama Healthcare Hall of Fame in 2022, recognizing his contributions.
Dr. Callahan is a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Medical Association of Alabama, the Jefferson County Medical Society, and the American Board of Ophthalmology.
“Not only has Dr. Mike Callahan served the UAB Department of Ophthalmology and the State of Alabama, he has led the International Retinal Research Foundation as President for over two decades. It is most appropriate to honor him and his wife, Teresa, in this way. All of us at the IRRF feel confident this gift will propel the continued success of the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences,” said Sandy Blackwood, Executive Director of IRRF. This endowment will bolster the UAB Department of Ophthalmology’s reputation as a leader in ophthalmology and visual sciences while furthering the mission of the IRRF to fund cutting-edge research that will benefit countless individuals, not only nationally but internationally as well.
Photo portrait of Teresa and Michael Callahan by Nik Layman PhotoVideo