Erick Henderson, O.D., has lots to celebrate.

The recipient of the American Optometric Association’s 2021 Young Optometrist of the Year Award, this successful O.D., of McCauley Celin Eyecare Associates in Pittsburgh, PA, is an industry speaker, educator, and volunteer, and will soon be adding the self-proclaimed “Girl Dad” title to his repertoire, as he and his wife await the arrival of their first child in November.

What excites this young O.D. most about optometry, exactly?

“I know that O.D.s will begin to play an even larger role in medical management of eyecare needs moving forward,” he says. “I am very excited to help move this profession forward for future generations of O.D.s, and I hope that they will join me in leaving the profession of optometry better than we found it.”

Here, Dr. Henderson talks inspiration, hobbies, and how setbacks can turn into blessings in disguise. 

Your most distinctive characteristic?

My smile. I never had braces, and it makes my smile a little more unique. I like to think it gives me character!

Inspiration to pursuing a career in eye care?

There were multiple optometrists that I knew growing up, and two of them were members of my church. They were active in the community, immensely generous, and just all-around great people. They were the type of person I wanted to end up like.

Most likely to splurge on?

Any and all types of food. I love going out to a nice dinner and enjoying a well-prepared meal with my wife, Erin.

Your eyecare heroes?

Ronald Serfoss, O.D. He is the example for what an amazing optometrist is and can be. I have never met anyone else who cares more about the optometric profession than him.

Best activity to find calm?

Gardening and yardwork. There is something completely therapeutic about getting my hands dirty in my garden and backyard.

Greatest advice to fellow O.D.s?

Don’t stop challenging yourself and learning. This profession is always changing and adapting, and we have to be ready and able to meet the demands in the future.

Podcast in your earbuds?

I always enjoy listening to my friends Jimmy Deom and Roya Habibi on the “Try Not to Blink” podcast. They are the best.

Pivot during Covid-19 to follow your dreams?

I was scheduled to buy a practice on April 1, but the world had other plans. Ultimately, it was a blessing in disguise, and this gave me time to take a step back and reassess what is most important in my life. Now I am feeling clearer and better than ever about who I am and what I want to do moving forward.