Centennial
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.
At the Centennial Gala Celebration on April 27, 2019, additional alumni, faculty, and friends will be honored.
During his lifetime Dr. Arthur Dorman made a significant impact on optometric legislation. He was a leader in the fight to pass diagnostic drug legislation and worked diligently to upgrade and amend laws relating to optometry. Dr. Dorman served 38 years in the Maryland State House as a delegate and senator before retiring in 2003, and passing away in 2012.
Upon graduating from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) in 1953, he started his private practice in Langley Park, Maryland which he operated until his retirement in the 1990s. He served as the President of the Vision Institute of America, and was named Optometrist of the Year in 1968 by the American Optometric Association. Dr. Dorman served on the PCO Board of Trustees from 1978 to 1981.
During Dr. Dorman’s tenure in the Senate, he represented both Prince George's and Montgomery counties in Maryland, and served as the Vice Chairman of the Economic and Environmental Affairs Committee and the Finance Committee.
He served in the Merchant Marine and Army during World War II. Dr. Dorman was also a member of the Southern Regional Education Board and chaired the Chesapeake Bay Trust, as well as a member of the American Legion, The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the US (VFW), Kiwanis, and as the former president of Beth Torah Congregation.
