The UIC Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences welcomes you to the 2024 Illinois Eye Ball. You are invited to join us in a spectacular Wonderland, full of whimsy and surprise! Throughout the evening, as we peer 'Through the Looking Glass,' we look forward to celebrating our accomplishments, and envisioning a bigger and brighter future.

This incredible evening is dedicated to bringing awareness to our clinical and research activities and impact as we treat the underserved within our community. Event proceeds will support our sight-saving programs, dedicated to improving patient care through innovative research and training the next generation of ophthalmologists.

PROGRAMS THAT YOU ARE SUPPORTING:

Local Outreach: The IEEI offers world-class clinical eye care to those in the Chicagoland and Illinois region who are underserved and uninsured. As the largest referral center in the state, we welcome all with open arms, ensuring that no one is turned away. Moreover, our commitment extends beyond with monthly free eye care screening programs throughout the city of Chicago, reaching those who might otherwise go without eyecare. As an example, in partnership with the Franciscan Outreach homeless shelter, the Department’s residents and medical students are providing eye health screening services in one of the largest free health clinics in Chicago.
Global Outreach: The IEEI global ophthalmology program is a force for change, dedicated to treating and eradicating eye conditions worldwide. Through clinical and educational outreach, pioneering research, and advocacy, we strive to unite individuals and resources to expand access to ophthalmic treatments for communities in need. Our partnerships span in Central and South America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, making a tangible difference in physicians abroad to provide better care.
Research & Innovation: At the IEEI, excellence in vision science research is not just a tradition, but a pursuit of understanding, treating, and preventing blinding eye diseases. Our collaborative and interdisciplinary approach fuels groundbreaking investigations, delving into the intricacies of the visual process and causes of vision loss. From cutting-edge advancements in artificial intelligence and stem cell research to diagnostic and drug development, our research is at the forefront of innovation, paving the way for brighter vision research.
Medical Education and Surgical Training: We are committed to training the next generation of ophthalmology leaders. Our comprehensive program, both locally and internationally, provide unique educational and leadership opportunities for our residents and fellows, and the Cless Family Ophthalmologic Training and Simulation Center provides a world-class surgical training environment for future ophthalmic surgeons. Additionally, we give early ophthalmology exposure to undergraduate and medical students to foster mentorship opportunities. Through the Illinois Ophthalmology Pathways (IOP) we are ensuring that those underrepresented in medicine have the chance to make their mark within ophthalmology.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

Illinois Eye Ball

In support of our sight-saving programs, join us for dinner, dancing, auctions & live entertainment! Black Tie Event. Festive attire suggested: Alice in Wonderland inspired!