Max Venard, OD, and J. Pat Cummings, OD, posthumously, were recently recognized by the more than 500 members of the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians (OAOP) as the 2009 inductees into the Pioneers In Optometry Hall of Fame.

"Dr. Venard and Dr. Cummings have been strong influences in optometry for many years." Russell Hopkins, president of the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians said. "It is a great honor to recognize these gentlemen as being instrumental in positioning our Association and profession as one of integrity, innovation and excellence."

A graduate of Oklahoma State University and Southern College of Optometry, Venard began his optometric practice in 1977 in Moore.

Venard has been actively involved in both the American Optometric Association (AOA) and OAOP; serving as district representative, vice president and president of the OAOP in 2008.

His involvement in legislative issues both at the state and federal level has been instrumental in establishing Oklahoma's respected reputation as a leading provider of optometric healthcare, Hopkins said.

Venard has served on the board of Moore Municipal Hospital and the Moore Norman Technology Center Board of Education. He is a charter member of the Moore Public School Foundation and founding member of the Moore Rotary Club.

With a special interest in investigative and forensic medicine, Venard earned his certification as a medical Investigator with the American College of Forensic Examiners, is CLEET certified and bonded with the Oklahoma Private Investigators Association, is Certified Homeland Security, Level III with the American College of Forensic Examiners and is certified with both the Moore Police Department Citizens Academy and the OSBI Civilian Academy.

Over the past two years, Venard has been intricately involved in bringing The CHILD Project and Senior Safety Net to Oklahoma in cooperation with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Association and B12 Technology.

The programs help identify lost or confused children and seniors who may not be able to provide identification information to law enforcement officials and return them safely and quickly back to their families.

For his efforts in this arena, he has been recognized by the American Optometric Association and is a respected advisor to law enforcement and other states who are implementing this system.

A practicing optometrist for over 26 years, Cummings was known by his patients and peers as a leader in optometry, a knowledgeable and innovative corporate executive and a powerful voice for the AOA, Hopkins said. Cummings was killed in a private plane accident in July, 2009.