Eye care and vision research luminary Professor Brien Holden, CEO of Brien Holden Vision Institute and Professor at the School of Optometry and Vision Science at UNSW Australia, passed away last night in Sydney following a heart attack. He was 73.
An awarded scientist and humanitarian, Professor Holden was known as the most influential optometrist of our generation said a spokesperson for the Brien Holden Vision Institute. ‘His career was spent inspiring scientists and health care professionals around the world with his dream of “vision for everyone, everywhere.”’
Of Professor Holden, the organisation’s deputy CEO, Professor Kovin Naidoo said: ‘Today is a very sad day in the history of our organisation, Brien was a man of extraordinary vision who devoted himself to the service of mankind.
‘He demanded that the research be indivisible from the service to society. He was truly an intellectual giant in eye health and vision, a powerhouse driving change by mobilising teams globally united in science and service to the disadvantaged of our world.’
While accepting the Charles F Prentice Medal, optometry’s highest honour, and acknowledging contributions and collaborations throughout his career, Professor Holden quoted Sir Isaac Newton, saying: ‘If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.’
Professor Brian Layland, chair of the Brien Holden Vision Institute board and a life-long friend of Professor Holden said: ‘Brien's efforts and achievements have been recognised, applauded and adopted worldwide. All who have worked with him will have fond memories to cherish; all will miss him. His legacy will encourage all to strive to achieve the goals he had set.’
Professor Holden was a beloved husband, father and grandfather.
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The career of pioneering Professor Brien Holden