On May 16, 2025, Montefiore Einstein Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences hosted the XXXI Annual Paul Henkind Day research symposium at Wave Hill in the Bronx. The symposium, which serves as a cornerstone for academic exchange and mentorship, focused on current research and clinical advances in ophthalmology. The continuing medical education (CME) conference brought together more than 75 ophthalmology residents, alumni, faculty and guests for a full day of research presentations, dialogue and collaboration, featuring research-based presentations by Montefiore Einstein residents alongside thought leaders and experts in the field.

The 2025 full-day live Program included presentations by residents, faculty, guest lecturers and distinguished alumnus Ryan M. Gise, MD, Attending Physician of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Neuro-Ophthalmology at Boston Children’s Hospital. Sessions highlighted a wide range of subspecialties and common ophthalmic conditions, including cataract and lens research, cornea, glaucoma, uveitis, keratitis, telemedicine, pediatric ophthalmology, surgical training and global health, demonstrating how emerging diagnostic tools, therapeutic approaches and data-driven technologies are shaping modern ophthalmic care. Throughout the day, discussions emphasized the application of emerging diagnostic and therapeutic advances to clinical care, the evaluation of atypical patient presentations, the evolution of cataract surgery techniques and how historical innovation informs current and future ophthalmic practice.

A highlight of the symposium was the XLIV Annual George N. Wise Memorial Lecture delivered by Michael F. Chiang, MD, Director of the National Eye Institute (NEI) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), on “How Are AI and Data Science Evolving the Field of Ophthalmology, and What Is the National Eye Institute Doing to Support It?” The symposium also recognized rising clinician-scientists, awarding the Ronald M. Burde Award for Excellence in Resident Research to Joyce Tang, MD, PGY-3, for her work examining cystoid macular edema in preterm infants and its association with retinopathy of prematurity treatment and neurological comorbidities.

Paul Henkind Day honors the legacy of Paul Henkind, MD, PhD, an internationally recognized authority on retinal vascular disease who served as Chairman of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences from 1969 until his passing in 1986. A pioneering clinician-scientist and educator, Dr. Henkind shaped the Department through groundbreaking research, extensive academic contributions and leadership within national and international ophthalmology communities. His legacy continues to inspire generations of ophthalmologists through this annual symposium dedicated to advancing research, clinical excellence and thoughtful inquiry in the field.

Dr. Henkind was a founding editor of multiple ophthalmic journals, a key figure in the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), a member of the original Association for Research in Ophthalmology which is now the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO), Chair of the Macula Society’s Research Committee and co-founder of the New York Fluorescein Club. His enduring influence is honored annually through both the Paul Henkind Memorial Lecture at the Macula Society and the Department’s Paul Henkind Day symposium.

Our Annual Paul Henkind Day continues to underscore Montefiore Einstein’s leadership and commitment to advancing education, research and clinical care in ophthalmology while ensuring healthcare professionals remain at the forefront of patient care. As one of New York State’s largest continuing education (CE)-accredited providers, Montefiore Einstein designates this live activity for a maximum of 5.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™.