Director of Publications

Southern College of Optometry (SCO) Bids Farewell to

Shannon Reynolds Torbett, Vice President for Institutional Advancement

MEMPHIS, Tennessee (March 31, 2008) –Southern College of Optometry (SCO) is bidding a fond farewell to Shannon Reynolds Torbett, Vice President for Institutional Advancement.

Torbett announced that she is leaving the college effective April 10, 2008 to join her family in St. Louis, where her husband serves as an official of the Federal Reserve Bank.

“Leaving SCO was an extremely tough decision, but one that is by far, the best for my family,” Torbett said. “Faculty, staff, students and alumni have been my extended family, especially these past two years. I cannot begin to put into words my gratitude and appreciation for the friendship, professionalism and camaraderie.”

Torbett joined SCO in 2003 as Director of Development. She was named Vice President for Institutional Advancement in 2006. Prior to joining SCO, she served as Executive Director of the American Cancer Society in Little Rock.

A graduate of Mary Washington College, she earned a master’s degree in historic preservation from the University of Georgia. As Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Torbett oversaw the college’s alumni affairs, development and fundraising campaigns, communications and special events.

During her service, Torbett led the75th Anniversary Campaign, the most successful development event in SCO’s history. She also oversaw the conceptualization and execution of the college’s 75^th Anniversary festivities, including a special event that coincided with the college’s 2007 commencement weekend. Torbett’s service additionally included the planning and direction events honoring the retirement of SCO President William E. Cochran, OD, and the inauguration of his successor, Richard W. Phillips, OD.

“We are saddened to see Shannon leave, but we understand the need to always keep the needs of family foremost, and we wish her well,” said President Phillips. “Under her leadership, the 75^th Diamond Anniversary Celebration was the most successful financial campaign in the history of the college. I know that all of you will join me in wishing the best for Shannon and her family, and in thanking her for her service to SCO. She will be greatly missed.”

Dr. Phillips said a search to fill the Vice President for Institutional Advancement position will be conducted; information about the position is posted on the SCO web site.

Established in Memphis, Tennessee in 1932, Southern College of Optometry is an independent, not-for-profit institution of higher education with a mission to educate men and women in the art and science of optometry.

###