The University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences is proud to announce the establishment of the Teresa and Michael A. Callahan, M.D., Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology. This prestigious chair is made possible by a transformative $1.5 million gift from the International Retinal Research Foundation (IRRF), underscoring a shared commitment to advancing vision science and patient care.

The endowed chair position is set to be filled by an exceptional clinician-scientist or clinician-educator whose expertise aligns with the department's mission to preserve global eye health through high-quality patient care, innovative research, and comprehensive education.

“The support and partnership with the International Research Foundation has been instrumental to the success of our department for decades. This newest gift highlights their unwavering support and we are thrilled that they have chosen to honor Dr. and Mrs. Callahan with this endowed chair. We look forward to finding a groundbreaking clinician-scientist or clinician-educator to help propel our mission forward in their names. ” said Brian Samuels, M.D., Ph.D., EyeSight Foundation of Alabama Endowed Chair.

The chair is named in honor of Teresa and Michael A. Callahan, M.D., recognizing their enduring legacy through UAB Callahan Eye and the IRRF’s generous support of groundbreaking ophthalmology research right her in Alabama.

The International Retinal Research Foundation has been a long-time partner of the department, providing significant support across mission areas, including research, clinical programs, and hospital advancements. Notably, IRRF previously established the Eivor and Alston Callahan, M.D., Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology, further cementing its commitment to elevating vision science and patient care.

“Not only has Dr. Callahan served UAB Department of Ophthalmology, but has led the International Retinal Research Foundation, as President, for over two decades. It is most appropriate to honor he and his wife, Teresa, in this way and we all feel confident that 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.

The Teresa and Michael A. Callahan, M.D., Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology will bolster the department’s reputation as a leader in ophthalmology and visual sciences while furthering its mission to deliver compassionate care, conduct cutting-edge research, and train the next generation of eye care professionals.

This remarkable collaboration reflects a shared vision for a future where sight-restoring discoveries transform lives and communities.

Photography credit to Nik Layman PhotoVideo.