Dr. Genevieve Oliver wins RANZCO Award
Southern Eye Specialists’ Dr Genevieve Oliver was commended for her inspiring work as Chair of Women in Ophthalmology in an award ceremony held at this year’s RANZCO Annual Congress.
Presented annually to a RANZO Fellow who has demonstrated outstanding service within their first ten years of fellowship, the Young Achiever Award is a highly respected accolade. It not only acknowledges the work and achievements of the recipient but also provides them recognition to help progress further with their career. Nominations for all RANZO awards are received from fellows and indicate a high level of respect among peers.
In a citation delivered by Dr Rosie Dawkins at the Congress in October, Dr Oliver was praised for her work as Chair of the Women in Ophthalmology (WIO) special interest group.
“From the very beginning of her time as Chair, Dr Oliver completely changed the engagement of women in Women in Ophthalmology,” said Dr Hawkins. “From a relatively small group it has become a well-known, highly engaged group. There is now a large committee of involved women and an even larger group of women and men who participate in events.”
Dr Dawkins applauded the development of training opportunities within WIO, which she sees as critical to women moving into leadership roles. She also commended Dr Oliver for raising the importance of women’s health within ophthalmology.
“Dr Oliver must also take credit for creating a culture where…big picture topics such as implicit bias to subject matter, such as eye conditions during pregnancy, are seriously discussed in public forums.”
The culmination of this development also led to Dr Oliver creating structured goals for WIO and leading the first Women in Ophthalmology Strategic Plan.
“In her own right, Dr Oliver is an accomplished doctor and scientist, however, her work in Women in Ophthalmology was truly remarkable,” Dr Hawkins finished.
We obviously agree and extend our huge congratulations to Dr Oliver.