Glaucoma Foundation receives $2.5 million gift from the Herbert Simon Family Foundation

Harris is engaged in research that spans a wide range of interests from the development of novel diagnostic and monitoring approaches for managing glaucoma to artificial intelligence and digital twin applications that are enhancing the understanding of the progression of glaucoma.

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The Glaucoma Foundation issued a news release that announced a major endowment gift of $2.5 million from the Herbert Simon Family Foundation. This gift will establish the Herbert Simon Chair in Glaucoma Research and Innovation. The endowment is intended to support the work of Alon Harris, PhD, MS, FARVO, an internationally renowned clinical scientist in ophthalmology and glaucoma.

Elena Sturman, the Glaucoma Foundation's president and CEO, acknowledged the endowment. "We are thrilled to receive this transformative gift – the largest individual gift in the Glaucoma Foundation’s 41-year history. It not only recognizes the impact that Dr. Harris's work has had on the field of glaucoma research but assures that his innovative work will continue to shape future directions in the fight against this devastating disease,” she commented.

Harris is engaged in research that spans a wide range of interests, from the development of novel diagnostic and monitoring approaches for managing glaucoma to artificial intelligence and digital twin applications that are enhancing the understanding of the progression of glaucoma, according to the news release.

He is the codirector of the Barry Family Center for Ophthalmic Artificial Intelligence & Human Health and Vice Chair of International Research and Academic Affairs at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York. He also is the director of the Ophthalmic Vascular Diagnostic and Research Program and holds dual professorships in ophthalmology and artificial intelligence and human health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

Simon commented, "Glaucoma has touched my family in a personal way, and I know how critical early detection and innovative treatment can be. Supporting Dr. Harris's work is not just an investment in science; it's a commitment to saving sight and improving lives. I'm proud that our family's name will be tied to someone whose passion and impact are so profound."

"I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to the Simon family for their most generous support of my work going forward," says Harris. "I am honored that they have entrusted me to carry out our shared commitment to research and innovation that can save sight and improve lives."