Centennial
President’s Medal Recipients
Many people have been part of the proud history of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) and Salus University. Alumni, faculty, and friends of the College helped establish PCO as a pioneer and leader in the field of optometric education and the profession of optometry. The following people - highlighted on Medal Mondays - were honored on May 20, 1995 at the 75th Anniversary Gala Celebration for their outstanding contributions to the College and the field of optometry and vision care.
During the weekend of the Centennial Gala Celebration, additional alumni, faculty, and friends were honored.
Freda Sattel, OD ‘43
Born in Johnstown, Pa., Freda Sattel, OD ’43, entered the Pennsylvania State College of Optometry (PSCO), later renamed Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) in September 1939. Inspired by her father who was an optometrist, Dr. Sattel paid no mind to being one of only seven “freshman” women in a class with a majority of male students. After Dr. Sattel graduated in 1943, she joined her father’s practice in Johnstown and three years later, took over the practice after her father’s passing. It was then that she faced – and persevered – through her greatest challenge of being a woman in optometry. With her “can do” attitude and compassion towards her patients, she was able to overcome adversity and successfully manage her practice for many years. Alongside her practice, Dr. Sattel also lectured at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and was a preceptor and mentor to many PCO graduates. Throughout her career she has won countless awards such as the Pennsylvania Optometrist of the Year from the Pennsylvania Optometric Association in 1989, and the Albert Fitch Memorial Alumnus of the Year Award from PCO in 1990. Just over a month ago, at PCO’s Centennial Gala, Dr. Sattel was given a standing ovation by fellow PCO alumni, faculty and friends as a testament to the amazing woman that she is and career she’s had.
