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By Jan Jarvis 

As a young graduate student in the 1970s, Thomas Yorio attended his first Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology meeting. 

“There were about 400 abstracts presented then,” he said. Now it is more like 6,000. 

Over four decades, ARVO grew into the largest gathering of eye and vision researchers in the world, with over 11,000 attendees from more than 75 countries. 

 Along the way, Dr. Yorio, who joined UNT Health Science Center as an eye researcher and Assistant Professor in 1977, developed friendships and collaborated with scientists from countries around the globe. He also devoted plenty of his time to the international organization. He currently serves on the Board of Governors. 

 ARVO recently recognized Dr. Yorio for his many contributions to eye research by presenting him with the Joanne G. Angle Award. It is the highest service award given to a volunteer professional. Dr. Yorio, Professor of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, said he is surprised and honored to be the 2019 recipient. 

“It’s very pleasing to get this award from ARVO,” he said. “This organization has brought people together and allowed me to meet many great scientists from all over the world.” 

Over the years, Dr. Yorio presented his research and collaborated with scientists from dozens of countries. 

“One of the main benefits of the organization is it brings people together to exchange ideas and develop friendships,” Dr. Yorio said. 

The Angle award was first given in 2012 posthumously to Joanne G. Angle, ARVO Executive Director for 22 years. The award is presented to an industry leader who has made significant, continuous contributions to ARVO in support of its mission.  Dr. Yorio is a long-time member who has served on and strongly led several entities within the organization, according to ARVO. 

Dr. Yorio said he knew ARVO Executive Director Joanne Angle well and worked with her on the Board of Trustees and numerous committees.  

 “When I was elected to serve in different capacities, I often worked with her,” he said. “She was invaluable to the organization.” 

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