Introduction:
Marshall B. Ketchum University is a private, non-profit university located in Fullerton, California. Founded in 1971, the university is dedicated to providing high-quality education in the fields of optometry and pharmacy. With a focus on innovation, community service, and excellence, Marshall B. Ketchum University has become a leader in healthcare education in Southern California and beyond.
History and Legacy
Marshall B. Ketchum University has a rich history and legacy in healthcare education. The university was founded in 1971 as the Southern California College of Optometry, with a mission to train optometrists to serve the needs of the community. In 2013, the university expanded its offerings to include a School of Pharmacy, becoming the only university in Southern California to offer both optometry and pharmacy programs.
The university is named in honor of Marshall B. Ketchum, a prominent optometrist and philanthropist who played a key role in the founding of the Southern California College of Optometry. Ketchum was dedicated to advancing the field of optometry and improving access to eye care for underserved communities, and his legacy continues to inspire and guide the work of the university today.
Innovative Programs and Facilities
Marshall B. Ketchum University is committed to innovation and staying at the forefront of healthcare education. The university’s School of Pharmacy offers a number of unique programs, including a Dual Degree PharmD/MBA program and a Certificate in Geriatric Pharmacy program. These programs are designed to prepare students for the rapidly changing healthcare landscape and provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their careers.
The university also has state-of-the-art facilities that are designed to enhance the learning experience for students. The Health Professions Building, which houses the School of Pharmacy and the Southern California College of Optometry, features cutting-edge classrooms and laboratories, as well as a student lounge and study areas. The university also has an on-campus Eye Care Center, which provides comprehensive eye care services to the community and serves as a training ground for optometry students.
Community Engagement and Service
Marshall B. Ketchum University is deeply committed to serving the community and improving access to healthcare services. The university’s Eye Care Center provides a wide range of services to underserved communities, including free eye exams and glasses for low-income individuals and families. The center also partners with local schools and organizations to provide vision screenings and education on eye health.
The School of Pharmacy is also committed to community service, with students and faculty regularly volunteering at local clinics and health fairs. The university’s Mobile Clinic, which is staffed by pharmacy students and faculty, provides free health screenings and education to underserved communities in Southern California.
Research and Scholarship
Marshall B. Ketchum University is a leader in healthcare research and scholarship, with a number of faculty members and students conducting groundbreaking research in the fields of optometry and pharmacy. The university has a number of research centers and institutes, including the Ketchum Health Research Network, which is dedicated to improving patient outcomes through research and innovation.
Faculty members at the university are also actively involved in publishing research articles and presenting at national and international conferences. In addition, the university’s Doctor of Pharmacy program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), indicating a high level of academic excellence and rigor.
Alumni Success Stories
Marshall B. Ketchum University has a proud tradition of producing successful graduates who go on to make a difference in the healthcare industry. Alumni of the university can be found working in a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals and clinics to research facilities and public health organizations.
One notable alumnus is Dr. David A. Heath, who graduated from the Southern California College of Optometry in 1977. Dr. Heath is a leading authority in the field of optometry and has made significant contributions to the profession throughout his career. He has served as president of the American Optometric Association and is currently the president and CEO of VSP Global, a leading vision care insurance company.
Another successful alumna is Dr. Joanna G. Katzman, who graduated from the Southern California College of Optometry in 1980. Dr. Katzman is a renowned expert in the area of vision rehabilitation and has published numerous research articles and book chapters on the topic. She is also a professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the field of optometry.
Conclusion:
Marshall B. Ketchum University is a dynamic and innovative institution that is dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare education and making a positive impact in the community. With a rich history and legacy, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to research, scholarship, and community service, the university is well-positioned to continue its leadership role in healthcare education for years to come. Graduates of Marshall B. Ketchum University are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to make a difference in the healthcare industry and improve the lives of patients and communities around the world.