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Optometry
As he stepped into the role of interim dean at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO), Salus at Drexel University, Jeffrey L. Weaver, OD ‘85, MBA, MS, FAAO, FACHE, knew he was in for a challenge.
“I’ve entered difficult situations before, but I’m committed to this one,” he said, emphasizing his dedication as an alum who wants PCO to be the best optometry school in the nation.
A pressing issue under his leadership will be addressing the lower-than-expected board scores of PCO students. “What are the underlying factors behind these scores?” Dr. Weaver asked, recognizing the complexity of the issue. “We need to analyze the curriculum, assess students' testing abilities, and identify multiple factors that could influence performance.”
His immediate strategy includes gathering input from faculty and students alike. “I want to hear from anyone willing to share their thoughts,” he said. “There are numerous solutions, and it’s about pinpointing the most effective ones.”
One positive step already implemented is a pre-study mock exam, a concept Dr. Weaver proposed, which he found had already been adopted prior to his arrival. He also wants to have a comprehensive evaluation of the program while ensuring any changes align with the strengths of the existing faculty.
Dr. Weaver plans to engage in one-on-one conversations with faculty members, assuring them of his transparent approach: “I’m here to help, with no hidden agendas. I’m coming in with an open mind,” he said.
Having chosen PCO as his sole application in the early 1980s, Dr. Weaver has a rich history in optometry. “Optometry was always at the top of my list, and nothing ever supplanted that in my mind of what I wanted to be,” he said. “I enjoyed my time at PCO, and I learned a lot.”
His extensive career experience includes serving as a principal investigator for Anterior Segment at The Eye Research Group in Erie, Pennsylvania, and director of optometry at Cornerstone Care Community Health Centers (an FQHC) in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. He has also served as Clinical Practice and Advancement Group director at the American Optometric Association and was the Founding Executive Director of the American Board of Optometry, in which he achieved National Commission for Certifying Agencies accreditation.
In addition, Dr. Weaver served as supervisory optometrist/residency coordinator for the Veterans Affairs Texas Valley Coastal Bend Healthcare System from 2019 through 2021. He directed evidence-based patient care operations of the eye clinic within a specialty care center and two community-based outpatient clinical facilities with a staff of 15 providers. He also oversaw the education of optometry externs from institutions such as the University of the Incarnate Word, the University of Houston, and the University of Pikeville, Kentucky. Notably, he developed and directed an accredited ocular disease residency program, gaining federal approval and funding within five months and achieving accreditation in the program’s first year.
Now, as he takes on this high-pressure role, Dr. Weaver also prepares to guide PCO through a merger with Drexel University and an upcoming reaccreditation process. “I’m putting a lot of pressure on myself because I deeply want us to succeed,” he said. “Though I don’t have all the answers yet, I am confident there is a way.”
