Optometrist, neuroscience grad student claim noteworthy achievements

UMMC optometrist receives statewide OD of the Year honor

The Mississippi Optometric Association recently selected Dr. Roya Attar, UMMC assistant professor of ophthalmology, to receive its Helen St. Clair Young OD of the Year Award for outstanding contributions to the profession of optometry and visual welfare for the citizens of the state of Mississippi.

Attar joined the Medical Center faculty in fall 2018 after helping found the Kentucky College of Optometry at the University of Pikeville in 2014. She served as an assistant professor and director of professional relations there, all while continuing to provide comprehensive optometric services.

While at the University of Pikeville, Attar also obtained her Master of Business Administration from the Coleman College of Business. The 2013 graduate of the Rosenberg School of Optometry at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas, also earned two bachelor’s degrees.

At UMMC, Attar performs timely eye examinations and makes full glasses and contact lens optical services available to patients. She provides front-door treatment for patients having an acute problem and makes determinations on whether a patient also needs to see an ophthalmologist.

Neuroscience graduate student earns new investigator trip

Maria Jones-Muhammad, a Ph.D. student in neuroscience, received a New Investigator Travel Award to the 2019 American Heart Association Council on Hypertension Scientific Sessions in New Orleans Sept. 5-8.