The William C. Frayer Professorship of Ophthalmology

The chair was established in l995 by gifts from many patients, friends, and colleagues of Professor Emeritus William C. Frayer, MD (1921–2012). Widely respected for his concern for his patients, his advances in ophthalmic pathology, and his dedication to his students, Dr. Frayer helped to found the Scheie Eye Institute and served as Professor of Ophthalmology for more than 20 years.

Dr. Frayer began his medical career as Captain in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1948. He found his assignment in ophthalmology to be highly satisfying and subsequently completed a dual residency in ophthalmology and pathology at the Perelman School of Medicine. He joined the faculty in 1952.

He left Penn in 1964, but returned in 1972 to help launch the Scheie Eye Institute. At Scheie, Dr. Frayer was the longtime Director of the Ophthalmic Pathology Laboratory, which now bears his name. On two separate occasions, he served as interim Chair of the Institute. Dr. Frayer was awarded emeritus status in 1991. During his retirement, he wrote the memoir An Ophthalmic Journey: 50 Years at the University of Pennsylvania and continued to mentor faculty and residents at the Scheie Eye Institute.

Current Chairholder

The William C. Frayer Professorship of Ophthalmology is open.

Previous Chairholders:

• Richard A. Stone, MD
• Samuel Jacobson, MD, PhD