(PRESS RELEASE) MEMPHIS, TN — As part of its 2025 commencement on May 6, Southern College of Optometry will recognize Dr. Steven Reed, OD, Class of 1995, with a Doctor of Ocular Science honorary degree, recognizing his contributions to the field of optometry.
“Throughout his 30-year career, Dr. Reed has made significant contributions to the optometric community,” said Dr. Lewis Reich, president of Southern College of Optometry. “We’re grateful to honor him with this recognition, as he serves as an inspiring figure to both SCO’s current students and graduates as they embark on the next chapter of their careers.”
Dr. Reed currently owns and operates three private practice optometry clinics in Magee, Collins and Prentiss, Mississippi, and he’s a co-owner of additional clinics in Clinton, Flowood, Forest and Vicksburg, Mississippi. In June, he will complete his 2024-25 term as president of the American Optometric Association (AOA) Board of Trustees. He was the first Mississippian to serve in this national role, leading to him being recognized by the Mississippi Senate with a resolution commending and congratulating him on his accomplishment. He is also the former president of the Mississippi Optometric Association (MOA) and the Southwest Optometric Society. Twice, he was the recipient of the MOA’s James P. Brownlee Optometrist of the Year Award (2010 and 2016).
SCO’s 2025 commencement ceremony is Tuesday, May 6, from 1-3 p.m. at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis, Tennessee. Its Class of 2025 has a total of 129 students hailing from 35 states and Canada.
