Celebrating the Inaugural Robert L. Stamper, MD, Endowed Visiting Lectureship in Glaucoma

On January 30, 2025, the UCSF Department of Ophthalmology hosted the inaugural Robert L. Stamper, MD, Endowed Visiting Lectureship in Glaucoma, marking a significant milestone in honoring Dr. Robert Stamper’s profound contributions to glaucoma research, patient care, education, and mentorship. The event took place in the William G. and Ruth R. Hoffman Auditorium at the Wayne and Gladys Valley Center for Vision and was simulcast via Zoom for remote attendees.

Dr. Robert L. Stamper, a Fortisure Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology at UCSF, has dedicated over half a century to protecting and restoring sight. A pioneer in the field of glaucoma, he has mentored generations of residents and fellows, published nearly 125 peer-reviewed research papers, and authored two authoritative textbooks on glaucoma.

His lasting impact inspired more than 80 donors to contribute toward establishing this endowed lectureship. Dr. Stamper, a long-standing board member of the All May See Foundation, spearheaded this initiative. His generosity—personally committed a substantial donation and pledging to match contributions from former fellows, residents, patients, and friends up to $125,000—helped establish a $250,000 endowment for the program. To date, over $270,000 has been raised, ensuring that his vision for advancing glaucoma education and research will thrive for generations.

The inaugural lecture was delivered by Jeff Liebmann, MD, Shirlee and Bernard Brown Professor and Vice Chair of Ophthalmology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. His presentation, “Enhancing and Evaluating Optic Nerve Resilience in Glaucoma,” explored groundbreaking insights, including:

• Mitochondrial dysfunction in glaucoma
• Nicotinamide as a potential neuroprotectant
• The design and implications of neuroprotection studies

The day began with Case Presentations in Glaucoma, moderated by Sri Padmanabhan, MD, setting the stage for the grand rounds lecture. The event brought together Northern California’s leading glaucoma specialists, UCSF faculty, residents, fellows, and students, fostering an enriching academic exchange.

During his two day visit, Dr, Liebmann met with members of our clinical faculty as well as our research faculty. He visited at least one of our ground-breaking research labs. Dr. Liebmann also met with glaucoma experts from other teaching programs in Northern California, residents interested in a career in glaucoma, the glaucoma fellow, and residents from other programs in Northern California interested in glaucoma research and care.

Beyond the lecture, the Robert L. Stamper, MD, Endowed Visiting Lectureship in Glaucoma will host leading experts at UCSF annually for a full two days of engagement, to include:

• A formal presentation following grand rounds, open to all Northern California glaucoma specialists;
• A dedicated session for residents and fellows from all Northern California training programs;
• An informal lunch discussion on career opportunities, research directions, and complex patient cases;
• One-on-one meetings with fellows, residents, researchers, and faculty; and,
• A faculty dinner the evening before the lecture, providing a unique opportunity for deeper engagement.

A recording of Dr. Liebmann’s lecture will be available for those unable to attend live.

Event Photos: