Optometry College Names Dean

He begins the role on July 1.

The University of Pikeville’s College of Optometry has a new dean.

Dr. Michael Bacigalupi will begin the role on July 1.

“Dr. Michael Bacigalupi was selected after an extensive search that brought four qualified candidates to campus,” said Burton J. Webb, president of the university. “He brings a unique mix of leadership and experience that make him a great choice to lead KYCO at this moment in our history. Scope of practice laws in Kentucky will allow KYCO, in cooperation with the Kentucky Optometric Association, to continue reshaping optometry for years to come. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Bacigalupi into the pursuit of that vision.”

Bacigalupi has 13 years of experience in optometric education and previously served as the assistant dean for student affairs and admissions at Nova Southeastern University-College of Optometry in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, where he was also assistant professor of optometry. During his tenure, he worked to enhance the college’s curriculum, establish partnerships within the institution and form articulation agreements in the U.S. and China.

“I am honored to begin my role as dean of the Kentucky College of Optometry,” said Bacigalupi. “Through collaboration with the University of Pikeville, the KYCO faculty, the KYCO students, the Kentucky Optometric Association and the community, I will strive to help KYCO achieve its mission of becoming a leading center of optometric education in the country. Rural communities in Appalachia and across the country will benefit from the care, skills and training of our future doctors of optometry.”

Bacigalupi received his doctor of optometry degree from the University of Houston-College of Optometry. He earned a master of science degree in business management with emphasis in leadership at the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, Bacigalupi completed the Institute for Management and Leadership in Higher Education program at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education.