Congratulations to Our 2023 Award Winners

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of optometry and his unwavering commitment to public service, Dr. Brian Mach is honored with the 2023 GWCO Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Mach's remarkable tenure on the Arizona Board, spanning from 2009 to 2018, with a notable term as President from 2011 to 2015, has left an indelible mark on the Arizona's pursuit of public protection and its overarching mission. His tireless dedication to fostering growth, collaboration, and positive change within the Arizona Board has resulted in significant advancements, including amendments to the Optometric Practice Act to broaden scope and refine regulations.

Moreover, Dr. Mach's genuine concern for the welfare of the community is evident in his efforts to educate practitioners, provide training, and champion the cause of public protection on a national scale. His unique ability to bridge the gap between the Arizona Board's objectives and the public's needs, characterized by insight, empathy, and strategic acumen, has led to the implementation of impactful initiatives that have improved countless lives. Dr. Mach's passion for community service and unwavering dedication to the Arizona's mission make him a paragon of a Public Servant, with an exceptional capacity to inspire and mobilize others towards meaningful action.

In addition to his distinguished board service, Dr. Mach has maintained his optometry license in Arizona since 1983 and currently serves as the Clinic Director of the Maricopa Medical Center Eye Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona, where he provides essential eye care to low-income residents. His profound legacy within the optometry profession, coupled with his deep personal and professional connections to the state, underscores the immense respect and admiration he garners. Dr. Mach’s receipt of the GWCO Lifetime Achievement Award is a well-deserved recognition of his life-long dedication to the profession and community he holds dear.

Dr. Court Wilkins, the 2023 GWCO OD of the Year, has dedicated eight years unwavering service as a board member of the Utah Optometric Association (UOA), where he even served as president. His leadership has been pivotal in driving optometric scope expansion legislation in Utah, a remarkable achievement in itself.

Dr. Wilkins actively supported the UOA through various initiatives, including organizing the RMU Student Association branch and volunteering for events like the annual Mega CE and Southern Utah CE conferences. Notably, he orchestrated a two-day Mega CE event hosted at Rocky Mountain University College of Optometry, overseeing logistics, speaker invitations, and facilities management. His dedication extended to teaching continuing education classes on serum tears and dry eye treatment, benefiting local optometrists.

Dr. Wilkins also made significant strides in the legislative arena by testifying at Legislative Sessions, advocating for optometric scope expansion and educating legislators on optometry school curricula. In the realm of public service he served as Utah State Medical Director for the Opening Eyes Special Olympics program, providing essential vision-related services to athletes.

Dr. Wilkins also volunteered at various clinics, impacting over 440 patients pro-bono, and participated in charitable events offering eye care to underserved populations. His commitment extended to education, teaching Sunday School for young adults. Dr. Wilkins's achievements culminated in monumental milestones, including the accreditation of Rocky Mountain University College of Optometry, where he revolutionized clinical training, initiated partnerships with universities and organizations, and established a surgical center on campus. Moreover, he led a scholarship program for RMU Optometry students, securing substantial funding. Dr. Wilkin’s exceptional contributions have left an enduring legacy in the field of optometry and the wider community.