Syracuse, NY — Former New York Governor David Patterson delivers the keynote address at a symposium celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Center for Vision Research at Upstate Medical College.
The symposium will be held on Fridays from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm at the Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison Street, Syracuse.
The event is open to the public. Patterson will speak at 5:45 p.m.
Patterson is the first legally blind person to serve as governor of the United States. He served as Governor of New York from his March 17, 2008 until he December 31, 2010. He is also the first African-American to serve as Governor of New York.
Patterson’s voice is “important to be heard,” says William Blanken, professor and vice chair of research, ophthalmology and vision sciences and director of the Center for Vision Research.
“As a center dedicated to understanding vision and finding cures for blindness, we are delighted to have David Patterson as our keynote speaker,” Blanken said. “His message of overcoming obstacles throughout life is important to all of us.”
Patterson is currently Professor of Health and Public Policy at Touro College in Harlem. He is also the author of Black, Blind and In Charge: A story of Visionary Leadership and Overcoming Adversity. ”
In addition to Patterson’s presentation, the symposium will include presentations by researchers from across the country. Individuals from Upstate Medical University, the National Institutes of Health, Harvard His Medical School, the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Washington are participating, according to a statement from Upstate Medical.
The presentation will report progress in using genetics to improve glaucoma treatment. Optic Nerve Injury; Retinal Disease; Neurodegeneration; Role of Circadian Rhythm in Vision and Translational Visual Science. Consider future funding for vision research.
