Awards

IU Indianapolis Spirit of Philanthropy Award - 2008

School of Optometry Foley House Basement Key Award - 1993

About Daniel R. Gerstman

Excelling both in academics and athletics, Daniel R. Gerstman grew up in Rantoul, Illinois. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1966 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. Subsequently, he received Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry degrees, as well as a Master of Science degree in Physiological Optics, all from Indiana University. After working in the private practice of optometry for a time, he continued his academic work by completing a program in primary care and developmental/low vision training at the Optometric Center of New York. Dr. Gerstman joined the faculty of the Indiana University School of Optometry as an assistant professor in 1971. In the course of the past 36 years he has served the school as teacher, researcher, and administrator, finishing up his career as executive associate dean for budgetary planning and administration.

Dr. Gerstman's career at the School of Optometry was multifaceted. Because of his exemplary teaching, his students selected him as Professor of the Year eleven times. He is a primary author of the "Examination Review in Optometry," which has gone through four editions and continues to be used by optometry students in preparation for National Board Examinations. He was heavily involved in service to the school, university, community, state, and profession. He served as either member or chair on a considerable number of IU committees during his tenure, including the campus and university budgetary affairs committees and several university reviews of programs and officers. On the state level, he was active in the Area 10 Council on Aging, which brought Rural Transit to the community for the benefit of senior citizens. Over the years, Dr. Gerstman also held various executive roles at the School of Optometry. He served as assistant director of the Division of Patient Care, chief of Low Vision Services, chief of Geriatric Services, assistant to the dean, and associate dean for budgetary and fiscal affairs. In 1995 he became executive associate dean for budgetary planning and administration.

Dr. Gerstman was also known for his philanthropic leadership. Both his personal volunteer service and financial support to the school were pivotal for the School of Optometry. During his time there, he worked tirelessly to procure countless gifts of cash, gifts-in-kind, and discounted equipment o furnish the school with the latest state-of-the-art equipment available for teaching the students and providing topnotch care to patients. His efforts helped secure the School's financial health over the decades.