About the Foundation

The Ronald G. Michels Fellowship Foundation was established soon after his premature death in 1991 with donations from his colleagues and patients. It is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support second-year fellows in training in vitreoretinal surgery in the United States. The Foundation continues to be supported by contributions from those dedicated to educational excellence in ophthalmology.

Ronald G. Michels Fellowship Foundation Awards are granted annually to outstanding second-year vitreoretinal fellows in training in the United States. To become eligible for an Award, candidates submit a formal application that includes thorough generic information and letters of reference from their mentors. A panel of noted physicians, educators and scientists reviews and ranks the annual applications. These rankings are submitted to the foundation's Board of Directors to determine the award recipients for each year.

The Fellowship Award recipients receive a cash stipend and a plaque. They are requested to attend the following Ronald G. Michels Fellowship Foundation Annual Meeting, which is held during the American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting, and to briefly introduce themselves to the audience. This meeting brings together supporters of the Foundation, including previous award winners. It offers an opportunity to socialize, strengthen relationships, and review the accomplishments of the Foundation.