Dean College of Optometry named OAOP Optometric Physician of the Year

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University Dean for the Oklahoma College of Optometry, Dr. Nate Lighthizer was recently named Optometric Physician of the Year by the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians.

The OAOP is a professional association dedicated to advocacy, education and other resources for Oklahoma Optometric Physicians. Each year, the association recognizes a Doctor of Optometry as Optometrist of the Year Award for their performance of outstanding services on behalf of the profession and for the visual welfare of the public.

The 2025 award was announced to Lighthizer by the OAOP executive director, Joel Robison, in front of NSUOCO students, residents, faculty and staff members.

“I finished clinicals and was asked by a couple of staff members to go out in the courtyard, and then I saw Joel Robison and it kind of dawned on me,” Lighthizer said. “I was shocked but I am honored to be the OAOP physician of the year.”

Lighthizer has been a member of the OAOP since 2009, joining the association as he worked on his residency at NSUOCO.

“Every one of our students, residents and faculty are members of the OAOP,” Lighthizer said. “This association fights for what we do and the privileges and laws that we have. Each state has its own association and being involved teaches students to be a part of something bigger than themselves.”

Lighthizer said NSUOCO students are enrolled in the association as early as their first year, allowing them to fully understand the importance of the organization and being a spokesperson for their profession upon graduation and into their careers.

“The state association and NSUOCO are in lockstep together because while we train, they advocate,” Lighthizer said. “It’s a beautiful partnership so I’m just very appreciative.”

As Dean of NSUOCO, Lighthizer now serves as liaison board member for the OAOP, allowing him to bridge the gap between students and working professionals.

For more information about the OAOP, visit oklahoma.aoa.org.

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