University Distinguished Achievement Award
Gills honored with University 2003 Distinguished Achievement Award
By Katie West,
University Relations intern
Virginia Tech Spectrum, April 25, 2003
Virginia Tech alumnus and Florida ophthalmologist James Gills has been awarded the 2003 University Distinguished Achievement Award by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors, which recognizes nationally distinguished achievement in any field of enduring significance to society.
Gills earned his reputation as a technological leader and innovator in the field of ophthalmology when he became the first doctor in the United States to dedicate his work to treating cataracts with intraocular lens implants--long before it was common practice.
Gills was recognized by his colleagues in 1996, when he was named the recipient of the Innovator's Award from the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. He was also chosen to be featured in the Best Doctors in America in 1999, and was elected to the Board of Directors of the American College of Eye Surgeons that same year. He has been appointed to the Duke University Medical CenterŐs Board of Visitors as well as the Advisory Board of Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute of Johns Hopkins College of Eye Surgeons.
Gills is the founder and director of St. LukeŐs Cataract and Laser Institute in Florida, the countryŐs largest free-standing ambulatory surgery and eye care center. He regularly works with organizations such as the Christian Blind Missions International and the Christian Medical Foundation.
Gills received his bachelorŐs degree in biology from Virginia Tech in 1955 and his medical degree from Duke University Medical School. He completed his residency at Johns Hopkins and then served as assistant professor of ophthalmology at Duke from 1965 to 1968.
In 1968, Gills moved to Florida to open his first clinic and began his work with intraocular lens implants and refinements of incision techniques.
Gills has written over 120 medical reference journal articles and eight books. Several of his books have been recognized as best sellers by the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Gills has been recognized with business as well as medical awards. He was recognized by the state of Florida in 1990 as Entrepreneur of the Year, and was the recipient of the 1995 Tampa Bay Ethics Award. In the medical field, he was named one of the Best Ophthalmologists in America in 1996.