Donnie C. Akers, OD is the Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs for the Program. A graduate of Indiana School of Optometry, Dr. Akers brings over 20 years of combined experience in clinic, didactic, and administrative roles. Dr. Akers completed the Association of Schools and Colleges Summer Institute for Faculty Development Program (SIFD) and has gone on to hold leadership positions in optometry as Faculty Chair, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, and Interim Dean. He holds the rank of Associate Professor with experience in course directing of Gross Anatomy, Ocular Anatomy, and Ocular Physiology. He holds an award for the Most Innovative Use of Technology for Instructional Purposes for his innovative introduction of the first virtual 3-D interactive software for both Gross and Ocular Anatomy laboratories for optometry. He has done work on a local, state and national level for the promotion of interprofessional education including presentations at the American Academy of Optometry and serving on an ASCO special interprofessional education task force.
