On Saturday, May 16, 2026, the Illinois College of Optometry celebrated its 183rd Commencement. A total of 104 students were conferred the Doctor of Optometry degree, and Joseph Tawfic, OD ’26 was recognized as this year’s valedictorian.
Three additional recognitions were highlighted during the ceremony.

ICO honored Jeff W. Smith, OD ’83, MBA, with the honorary degree of Doctor of Science in Optometry. Dr. Smith has been a member of ICO’s Leadership Circle for 21 years and has served on ICO’s Board of Trustees, including terms as Board Chair and Interim President.

Also recognized with the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters were siblings Susan Tobert, MSW, and Alfred A. Rosenbloom III, PhD, in recognition of their enduring commitment to The Alfred and Sarah Rosenbloom Center on Vision and Aging. Their continued stewardship ensures the vitality of the lifelong vision shared by their parents, Alfred A. Rosenbloom Jr., OD, MA, DOS, and Sarah Rosenbloom. The Alfred and Sarah Rosenbloom Center on Vision and Aging provides comprehensive primary and secondary vision care for adults, vision rehabilitation and adaptive technology services for individuals of all ages with vision impairment, occupational therapy, electrophysiology services, and psychological support.

The first-ever Rosenbloom Family Professor of Low Vision Medallion was presented to Tracy Matchinski, OD ’95. Dr. Matchinski was appointed by Stephanie Messner, OD and approved by President Mark Colip, OD ’92 as the inaugural holder of this prestigious professorship in recognition of her distinguished leadership in low-vision rehabilitation, dedication to student education, and commitment to patient care.

Rewatch Commencements livestream on ICO's

You Tube Channel.

Download over 300 photos on ICO's Flickr page.