The John F. Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at WashU Medicine invites you to join us in celebrating the extraordinary career and enduring impact of Morton E. Smith, MD.
Dr. Smith, Professor Emeritus of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Associate Dean Emeritus, continues to inspire as a living legend in the field of vision science. His life’s work embodies a relentless commitment to improving vision care and shaping the future of ophthalmology. Throughout his remarkable career, he has touched countless lives—mentoring aspiring physicians, advancing groundbreaking research, and providing compassionate care to his patients. His students and colleagues often speak of him not only as a brilliant scholar but also as a source of unwavering kindness, encouragement, and inspiration.
To honor his remarkable contributions, we are proud to establish the Morton E. Smith, MD Professorship. A named professorship represents the highest academic honor a university can bestow upon a faculty member. It is a powerful tribute to Dr. Smith’s legacy, recognizing his scholarly achievements while providing critical resources to support the next generation of vision scientists. This professorship ensures that his visionary work and commitment to excellence will continue to shape the future of ophthalmology for years to come.
How You Can Help
Your gift to the Morton E. Smith, MD Professorship will not only secure Dr. Smith’s living legacy but will also help keep his passion for education and innovation alive in the hearts of future leaders in ophthalmology. By supporting a named professorship, you create a powerful ripple effect—investing in the lives of students and faculty who will carry forward his mission to improve vision care worldwide.
It is more than a contribution; it is a profound way to honor Dr. Smith’s life’s work while fostering hope and progress in academic medicine. Together, we can ensure that his story of dedication and excellence continues to inspire generations to come.
To make a contribution, please visit Smith, MD Professorship Fund.
You can also give by mail. To do so, please print and complete the giving form (PDF) and mail it along with your contribution to:
Corey Pashea
Office of Medical Advancement
MSC 1082-414-2555
Washington University
1 Brookings Drive
St. Louis, MO 63130-4899
Dr. Morton E. Smith’s Legacy
Dr. Smith’s career spans decades of groundbreaking contributions to ophthalmology, including his tenure as Vice Chair for Education and numerous prestigious teaching awards. As a mentor, educator, and clinician, his impact reaches far beyond Washington University, touching lives worldwide.
Dr. Smith’s legacy is one of compassion, brilliance, and relentless dedication to advancing vision science. By honoring him with your support, you become part of his incredible story—a story that continues to inspire and transform lives. Together, let’s ensure that his unparalleled contributions endure for generations to come.