The 2007 Dean’s Research Award was presented to Dr. Robert Ritch, Professor of Ophthalmology on Wednesday, January 16, 2008 in the Nevins Auditorium of the Medical Education Center. Dr. Ritch has made significant contributions to the identification and understanding of the basic pathophysiology of exfoliation syndrome, the most common cause of open-angle glaucoma worldwide. Dr. Ritch delivered a lecture entitled: "Exfoliation Syndrome: Far More Than Just Glaucoma". A reception in Dr. Ritch's honor was held following the lecture.