Dr. V. K. Raju, a distinguished ophthalmologist and humanitarian, will receive the Indo-American Press Club’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the 11th International Media Conference in Cincinnati on October 17, 2026.
CINCINNATI, OH – The Indo-American Press Club (IAPC), a leading organization for media professionals of Indian origin in North America, will honor Dr. Vadrevu K. (V. K.) Raju with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. The award ceremony will take place during the 11th International Media Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio, on October 17, 2026.
This accolade recognizes Dr. Raju’s exceptional commitment to restoring sight, preventing blindness, and enhancing healthcare access for underserved populations worldwide. His decades of humanitarian outreach and medical leadership have transformed countless lives, establishing him as a respected figure in global ophthalmology.
Born in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, India, Dr. Raju serves as a Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at West Virginia University and an Adjunct Professor at the Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins University. He is also the Founder and Past President of the Eye Foundation of America (EFA). Since founding EFA in 1979, Dr. Raju has spearheaded programs that have expanded to over 25 countries, screening millions of patients and facilitating hundreds of thousands of sight-restoring surgeries, particularly focusing on eliminating avoidable childhood blindness.
In addition to his work with the Eye Foundation of America, Dr. Raju has played a pivotal role in establishing premier eye-care institutions in India, including the Goutami Eye Institute and Srikiran Eye Institute. He has authored numerous scientific publications, book chapters, and books dedicated to ophthalmology and global health.
“Dr. V. K. Raju represents the highest ideals of professional excellence, humanitarian service, and community leadership,” said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Indo-American Press Club. “His lifelong mission to eliminate preventable blindness and bring quality eye care to vulnerable populations has inspired healthcare professionals and community leaders around the world.”
The award presentation will occur during the Grand Gala and Awards Ceremony of the IAPC’s 11th International Media Conference at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Cincinnati Sharonville. Scheduled for October 16-18, 2026, the conference will gather journalists, media leaders, authors, business executives, and community representatives from across the United States and around the globe.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Raju has received numerous accolades for his contributions to medicine, public health, education, and humanitarian service. His ongoing work continues to impact communities worldwide through clinical care, medical training, research, and advocacy for accessible vision care.
Dr. V. K. Raju is an internationally recognized ophthalmologist, humanitarian, and educator, dedicated to combating avoidable blindness for nearly five decades. His efforts encompass medical service, education, research, and the establishment of sustainable eye-care institutions across the world.
The Indo-American Press Club, founded in 2014, represents journalists, media professionals, publishers, and communications leaders of Indian origin throughout North America. The organization promotes excellence in journalism, professional development, networking, and community engagement.
For more information, visit the Indo-American Press Club’s website at indoamericanpressclub.com.
According to Indo-American Press Club.