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.
William G. Walton, Sr., OD
1872-1956
Dr. William G. Walton Sr. was one of the pioneering optometrists in Pennsylvania who, along with others, worked diligently for the passage of the first optometric laws within the state in 1917. He served as President of the Pennsylvania Optometric Association (POA) and the Pennsylvania College of Optometrists. Dr. Walton was a charter member of the College Board of Trustees and remained on the board for many years, serving as Secretary from 1946 until his death in 1956. He was well known for his invention of numerous devices used in the examination process.
Check out this short film, recorded in 1938, which tells the story of William G. Walton, Jr. OD ’40 telling his father, William G. Walton Sr., OD about his desire to follow in his footsteps and become an optometrist. Watch as he tours the Old Main campus of the Pennsylvania State College of Optometry (PSCO, later shortened to Pennsylvania College of Optometry), visits with PSCO founder, Dr. Albert Fitch and later opens his own practice. (View Full Film)
