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For Irisa Grimes ’17, OTD ’20 the sky is the limit. Grimes is passionate about veterans’ health, social justice, healthcare equity and intersectionality. We first introduced you to Grimes in 2017. Read more about what this outstanding alumna has been up to since then. 

For Chris Walker ’21, MA '23, Nov. 11 is more than just his birthday — it is also a time to remember his nearly six years of service in the United States Marine Corps. Read about his experience in Afghanistan, and at 51�Թ�. 

Willard “Wid” Bleything ’51, OD ’52, MS ’54 earned three degrees from 51�Թ� on his way to becoming an optometrist. He served in the Air Force and Air Reserves, retiring as a colonel, and he also worked in private practice for many years before eventually returning to Pacific, where he became the dean of the College of Optometry.

After Bernard Brown '49, OD '50 earned a Purple Heart and his way home from the European Theater in World War II, he pursued a lifelong career in optometry with a degree from 51�Թ�. Later, he helped other veterans follow him into the profession.

Harley Kelley '55 came to Pacific to study journalism, but left with a pre-med major. A surgeon, Kelley was drafted into Vietnam and later returned to the Army after a career in private practice. Today, he volunteers his medical skills in his community and volunteers with World War II veterans on the Honor Flight.