Dr. C. Clayton Powell Sr.
Dr. C. Clayton Powell, Sr., co-founder of the National Optometric Association, has passed away at age 93, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He practiced optometry in Atlanta for close to 50 years, during which he also advised optometry students.
“Our profession has lost an icon and legend with the passing of The National Optometric Association co-founder and visionary leader, Dr. C. Clayton Powell Sr.,” NOA President Sherrol A. Reynolds, O.D., F.A.A.O., told Optometric Management. “Dr. Powell built a life of distinction and service, and his passing is an immense loss to our organization, the profession of optometry and the many lives he touched over the years.”
Dr. Reynolds went on to say that Dr. Powell left behind a profession that is more diverse and an organization committed to the mission of, ‘Advancing the Visual Health of Minority Populations,’ as the NOA has strengthened the profession, created new opportunities and promoted minority ocular health in underserved communities. “His dedication to the profession was unparalleled. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue forever,” she added.
Dr. Powell was listed in Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in Black America and Who’s Who in American Politics and the International Directory of Distinguished Leadership, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Also, he was the first Black American to join the National Eye Institute.
In honor of Dr. Powell, the Southern College of Optometry recently established a $25,000 Dr. C. Clayton Powell Memorial Scholarship.
He leaves behind his wife Deborah S. Powell, son, C. Clayton Powell, Jr., daughter, Dr. Rometta E. Powell, stepdaughter, Camille G. Stephens, grandchildren, Jordan Goodlett, Arayah Goodlett, Clayton Powell Lee and C. Malik Stephens and, no doubt, countless optometrists who appreciate and celebrate the path he laid for them in the profession. OM
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