MBKU Faculty Member Honored for Advancing Optometry and Championing Community Vision Clinics, Including the Newly Launched Angels for Sight Vision Clinic in Long Beach
Marshall B. Ketchum University (MBKU) announced that Dr. Mark E. Nakano, OD, associate dean of clinics and assistant professor at MBKU’s Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO), has been named the 2024 Keyperson of the Year by the California Optometric Association (COA). This prestigious recognition is not given out every year but is awarded to deserving individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to advocacy, leadership and legislation for optometry. Dr. Nakano’s COA engagement, professional mentorship and direction in establishing local clinics – including his most recent involvement in the newly launched Angels for Sight Vision Clinic in Long Beach which expands access to care for underserved communities in the greater Los Angeles area – have made a lasting impact on the profession and are helping shape the future of patient care.
“I am deeply honored to be recognized by the COA and my peers,” said Dr. Nakano. “Advocacy is essential to advancing our profession and ensuring we continue to provide the highest level of care to our patients. I’m committed to expanding access to vision care across all communities, while also helping train and inspire the next generation of optometric professionals. I am grateful to have the support of MBKU in driving these efforts forward.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Nakano has been a dedicated advocate for optometry, serving on multiple COA committees. His contributions also include volunteering as an Eyes of Hope Vision Care Provider, Vision Director of Blessfest delivering care to the unhoused, Immediate Past-President of the South Bay Optometric Society and currently serving as vice chair of the National Academies of Practice Optometry Section. He has contributed significantly to patient care advancements, including legislative scope expansions for optometry in 2017 and 2021 and the inclusion of COVID-19 vaccinations within optometric practice. As a frontline provider at COVID Vaccination Super Sites, he helped administer over 5,000 vaccines.
Expanding Access to Eye Care Through Community Clinics
Notably, Dr. Nakano has been instrumental in expanding access to eye care, establishing and leading seven community-focused clinics that serve underserved populations while providing hands-on training for future optometrists.Ketchum Health’s University Eye Centers in Anaheim and Los Angeles have long served as flagship clinical teaching facilities for SCCO at MBKU, setting the standard for excellence in patient care, education and community service. Dr. Nakano has played a pivotal role in their ongoing success, ensuring these clinics not only provide high-quality vision care but also serve as invaluable training grounds for future optometrists. His leadership and commitment to advancing clinical education and patient access have helped shape these centers into models of comprehensive eye care – an approach he has carried forward in the development and support of additional clinics serving underserved populations. These clinics include the South Central Family Health Clinic and Hurtt Clinic at Village of Hope, both Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) providing essential care to uninsured and homeless patients; Beyond Blindness in Santa Ana, supporting children with visual and developmental impairments; California State University Fullerton’s Student Health Center, ensuring students have access to affordable eye care; and Angels for Sight in Long Beach, a nonprofit clinic dedicated to accessible vision services for underserved communities.
Most recently, Dr. Nakano played a key role in launching the Angels for Sight Vision Clinic in Long Beach, where he serves as interim clinical director. He guided the effort from facility planning and compliance to insurance credentialing and operations. This newest clinic is staffed by MBKU faculty and optometry students who provide patient care. As a teaching site, it offers graduate students hands-on experience under expert supervision, ensuring high-quality care for patients while preparing the next generation of optometrists. Together, Angels for Sight and MBKU are expanding access to essential vision services, including comprehensive exams, eyeglass fittings and ocular disease treatment.
“Dr. Nakano’s commitment to advocacy and patient care is truly inspiring,” said Dr. Julie A. Schornack, president of Marshall B. Ketchum University. “His leadership and dedication not only strengthen the field of optometry but also make a profound difference in the lives of countless patients, students and colleagues. We are incredibly proud of his accomplishments and grateful for his contributions to MBKU and the broader optometric community.”
In addition to this latest honor from COA, Dr. Nakano has received numerous recognitions, including the Distinguished Fellow designation from the National Academies of Practice. He remains committed to advancing the profession by mentoring future optometrists, expanding optometric services in community clinics and advocating for policies that strengthen patient care.
Discover the latest trends and insights—explore the Business Insights Journal for up-to-date strategies and industry breakthroughs!
