The Francis I. Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology: A Legacy of Innovation and Impact
The Francis I. Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), has been a beacon of excellence in the study of infectious and inflammatory eye diseases for over 70 years. Established in 1947 by Elizabeth C. Proctor in memory of her husband, Dr. Francis I. Proctor, the Foundation’s mission has remained steadfast: to prevent blindness through groundbreaking research and exceptional patient care.
A Visionary Beginning
Dr. Francis I. Proctor, a prominent Boston ophthalmologist, and his wife, Elizabeth, retired to Santa Fe, New Mexico, in the 1920s. There, they became deeply concerned about the widespread blinding disease, trachoma, among Native Americans. Driven by their commitment to combat this devastating condition, the Proctors collaborated with Dr. Phillips Thygeson, a rising star in ophthalmology with a keen interest in infectious diseases.
In 1930, the trio traveled to Egypt to study trachoma, marking the beginning of their pioneering research efforts. Their work led to the establishment of a trachoma research laboratory at Fort Apache, Arizona. This laboratory played a crucial role in identifying the causative agent of trachoma, significantly advancing the understanding and treatment of the disease.
Francis and Elizabeth Proctor working in a microbiology laboratory in the early 1930s.
The Birth of the Proctor Foundation
After Dr. Proctor’s sudden death in 1936, Elizabeth continued their mission. She consulted Dr. Thygeson on how best to use the accumulated funds from Dr. Proctor’s estate, leading to the creation of a memorial research laboratory. Although initial attempts to establish the Foundation at Stanford University were unsuccessful, UCSF emerged as the ideal partner.
On September 15, 1947, the Francis I. Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology was officially established at UCSF. The Foundation’s unique structure, including a Board of Governors and ownership of its laboratory space, ensured its autonomy and growth.
Elizabeth Proctor and Dr. Phillips Thygeson in Egypt, 1930
Pioneering Research and Global Impact
From its inception, the Proctor Foundation has been at the forefront of ophthalmic research. The initial laboratory space, funded by generous donations, quickly became a hub for cutting-edge research. Dr. Michael J. Hogan, the Foundation’s first director, and Dr. Thygeson led groundbreaking studies in ocular pathology and microbiology.
The Foundation’s early years were marked by financial challenges, but dedication to research and education remained unwavering. The Foundation's efforts soon garnered national attention, leading to increased funding and the expansion of its facilities. By the mid-1960s, the Foundation had secured significant support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), propelling its research capabilities to new heights.
Expanding Horizons
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the Proctor Foundation broadened its research focus to include all infectious and immunologic eye diseases. Collaborative studies with leading scientists resulted in significant advancements in understanding and treating conditions such as uveitis and ocular toxoplasmosis.
The Foundation’s fellowship program, established in 1948, attracted top talent from around the world. These fellows, trained in both clinical and research settings, have gone on to become leaders in ophthalmology, forming a global network of nearly 200 clinicians and researchers.
Dr. Phillips Thygeson (left) and Dr. Michael Hogan (right), early 1950s
Dr. G. Richard O’Connor (center) with Dr. Khalid Tabbara (left) and Dr. Mardiono Marsetio (right) in the library at the Proctor Foundation
A Legacy of Excellence
The 1980s and 1990s saw continued growth and innovation at the Proctor Foundation. New faculty members brought fresh perspectives and expertise, further enhancing the Foundation’s research programs. Studies on the pathogenesis of herpes simplex virus infection, chlamydial diseases, and other ocular infections led to important discoveries that have improved patient care worldwide.
The Foundation’s commitment to preventing blindness extended to field studies in Asia, Africa, and South America. Collaborative efforts with international partners helped control trachoma and other infectious eye diseases in underserved communities.
Dr. Robert A. Nozik (left) with Dr. Sivakumar R. Rathinam (center) and Dr. Emmett Cunningham (right) at the Proctor Foundation.
Dr. H. Bruce Ostler (left) with Dr. Gilbert Smolin (center) and Dr. John Whitcher (right) at an international leprosy meeting, Madras, India, 1985
Looking Forward
As the Proctor Foundation moves into the future, its mission remains unchanged. Trachoma, herpes simplex virus infection, and other blinding diseases continue to be major public health challenges. The Foundation’s unique position within the UCSF system allows it to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical application, ensuring that discoveries directly benefit patients.
The legacy of Francis and Elizabeth Proctor lives on through the Foundation’s continued dedication to excellence in ophthalmic research and education. Their vision and generosity have created a lasting impact, making the Proctor Foundation a premier destination for those seeking the highest standard of eye care and research.
Acknowledgements
The Proctor Foundation’s achievements have been made possible by the support of numerous organizations and individuals, including the NIH, Research to Prevent Blindness, and the Edna McConnell Clark Foundation, among others. Their contributions have enabled the Foundation to remain at the cutting edge of ophthalmic research and to train the next generation of leaders in the field.
For over 70 years, the Francis I. Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology has been a leader in the fight against blindness. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence, the Foundation continues to pave the way for a brighter future in eye care.
References:
The Francis I. Proctor Foundation: The First Fifty Years
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0039625797001380?via%3Dihub
Francis I. Proctor, MD and his wife Elizabeth C. Proctor: Their lives and legacy