Horace Deal
(PRESS RELEASE) ATLANTA – SECO International proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Horace Deal, O.D., as President for the 2024-2025 term. Elected at the House of Delegates meeting during SECO 2024, Dr. Deal steps into this prestigious role with an extensive background in optometry and a strong commitment to professional excellence and innovation.
A distinguished alumnus of the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN, Dr. Deal has dedicated his career to advancing the field of optometry. After graduating in 1997, he quickly established himself as a leader, specializing in areas such as pediatrics, vision training, glaucoma, and cataracts during his internships at Clayton Eye Center and Gottleib Vision Group.
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In 1997, Dr. Deal joined Professional Eye Care of Hinesville as an Associate Optometrist, later taking over Becker Eye Clinic in Statesboro in 2000, changing the name to Professional Eye Care of Statesboro, which he has successfully led as the owner since that time. His commitment to the community extends to serving on the Board of the Athletic Foundation at Georgia Southern University, where he has also made significant contributions as the team optometrist for Georgia Southern University Athletics since 2000. In this role, Dr. Deal has been instrumental in teaching and developing Sports Vision programs, working closely with trainers and athletes to enhance their performance.
Recognized for his leadership within the profession, Dr. Deal is a Past-President of the Georgia Optometric Association and contributes his expertise as Adjunct Faculty for the Southern College of Optometry. His contributions have been acknowledged with numerous awards, including Georgia Young Optometrist of the Year in 1999 and Georgia Optometrist of the year in 2010.
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“We are honored to have Dr. Horace Deal lead SECO International as we embark on new initiatives to support and advance the optometric profession,” said Dr. Michelle Cooper, the outgoing SECO President. “Dr. Deal’s impressive background, combined with his passion for education and community service, makes him an exemplary leader for our organization.”
Dr. Deal resides in Statesboro, Georgia with his wife, Caroline (Benton) Deal, their daughter Emmaline, and their dog Aurora. His dedication to his family, community, and the profession of optometry exemplifies the values at the heart of SECO International.
