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Home Distinguished Alumni Awards Distinguished Alumni Award Winner

Distinguished Alumni Award

Lillian C. O'Brien

1980 Friend Award

Lillian C. O'Brien interest in the UI Department of Ophthalmology developed through her marriage to Dr. C.S. O'Brien, the department's first head, who served in that position for more than 20 years, beginning in 1925.

In 1973, through the cooperation of Mrs. O'Brien, the C.S. O'Brien Library was dedicated in his honor, offering a central learning and research center for students in ophthalmology. This $130,000 facility was made possible through private support from Dr. O'Brien's friends, students and colleagues.

Under Dr. O'Brien's leadership, the UI Department of Ophthalmology became one of the first independent eye departments in the country. Of those who completed work in the clinic, more than 20 percent have chosen academic careers and 18 have become heads at other institutions.

Dr. O'Brien's tenure was marked by extensive research, and Mrs. O'Brien's support has assured that the research initiated by her husband has continued. She has retained close ties with the University since the death of her husband in 1978.

About Distinguished Alumni Awards

Since 1963, the University of Iowa has annually recognized accomplished alumni and friends with Distinguished Alumni Awards. Awards are presented in seven categories: Achievement, Service, Hickerson Recognition, Faculty, Staff, Recent Graduate, and Friend of the University.

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The University of Iowa stands at the forefront of the restitution movement as the Stanley becomes the first U.S. museum to restore items to the Kingdom of Benin.

Two Decades Later, Iowa City's James Gang Continues to Build Community

The UI student-founded nonprofit has launched endeavors like the 10,000 Hours Show, Mission Creek Festival, and Quire.

Top 10 Iowa Magazine Stories of 2018

With the start of a new year upon us, it's time to look back at your favorite University of Iowa stories from 2018. Here are Iowa Magazine's top 10 most-read articles of the year: The Nomadic Life (spring 2018) Hawkeye football favorite Paki O'Meara (10BA) finds ultimate freedom in backpacking around the world, taking photos that inspire a sense of wonder. PHOTO COURTESY PAKI O'MEARA Kinnick at 100 (summer 2018) This past summer marked two historically significant dates for Hawkeye fans: the 100th anniversary of the birth of Nile Kinnick (40BA), and the 75th anniversary of his tragic death. In memory of Iowa's favorite son, scholar, and Ironman, we look back on his life and legacy. Ahead of the Game (spring 2018) The Iowa football team becomes the first in the nation to equip the majority of its players with a state-of-the-art new helmet designed to improve player safety. PHOTO: MARK STASTNY Hollywood U (fall 2018) Alumni success in TV and film shines the spotlight on Iowa's? flourishing screenwriting program. ILLUSTRATION: FABIEN GILBERT / ARTISTIQUE INTERNATIONAL Mountain Roots (spring 2018) Nearly 80 years ago, an unlikely UI mountain-climbing club emerged from the cornfields of Iowa to become one of the most active in the world. Now the next generation of outdoorsmen continue in their Hawkeye family's footsteps. PHOTO COURTESY EBERT FAMILY The Secrets of Sleep (fall 2018) UI doctors and researchers work to shine light on the third of our lives we spend in the dark. Illustration: John Emigh Fry's Dream Team (fall 2018) FRYFest honors Hayden Fry's legendary 1983 coaching tree. PHOTO: UI ATHLETICS Going the Distance (spring 2018) UI-trained dentist Deb Carneol (92DDS) completes seven marathons on seven continents in seven days. PHOTO: MARK CONLON/WORLDMARATHONCHALLENGE.COM At 105, Our Oldest Hawkeye? (spring 2018) Catherine Shaw Shors (35BSC), who earned her business degree from Iowa more than eight decades ago, celebrated a milestone birthday in May. 1936 HAWKEYE YEARBOOK A Heroic Homecoming (spring 2018) Avengers: Infinity War director Joe Russo (92BA) receives a superhero's welcome at his alma mater. PHOTOS: Justin Torner

Alumni Affinity Groups and Affiliated Alumni Networks

Iowa alumni with shared connections are invited to join an affinity group. Some of these organizations are an extension of student interests, like Alumni Band or Dance Marathon Alumni Group.

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