The Scotts’ Lasting Impact on NECO
For Dr. Clifford “Scotty” Scott and Dr. Mary Scott, New England College of Optometry has always been more than a place of study—it’s been home. The couple first met as classmates at NECO, launching both a lifelong partnership and distinguished careers in optometry.
Dr. Mary Scott, valedictorian of the Class of 1968, built a career that spanned academics, clinical practice, and institutional leadership. She served as a Trustee for more than a decade, helping guide NECO through critical advancements, and today continues to mentor students in the clinical skills lab. Her legacy reflects pioneering leadership, dedication to patient care, and devotion to education.
Scotty has been equally central to NECO’s story, serving as professor, department chair, dean of Academic Affairs, and president from 2009–2018. Now president emeritus, he continues to contribute as an institutional historian and trusted advisor.
Together, the Scotts embody NECO’s enduring spirit of service, scholarship, and community—leaving an indelible mark on the College and the profession of optometry. Today, their connection to NECO remains strong.
“It’s just a formal way of saying: we are all on this planet together and should be there to help each other.”
– Clifford Scott, OD
A Community That Lasts a Lifetime
Reflecting on their student years, the Scotts describe NECO as a family. “This is evidenced by strong alumni attendance at class reunions and at our receptions at national meetings,” Scotty shares. The mentors and role models who shaped their student experiences decades ago continue to inspire, and the Scotts take pride in watching that same legacy of connection extend across generations of alumni.
Philanthropy, to the Scotts, is rooted in community. “It’s just a formal way of saying: we are all on this planet together and should be there to help each other.” They view their support as both a responsibility and a privilege—an opportunity to honor the profession they love, while helping to reduce the financial burden on today’s students. “When I was a student,” Scotty said, “I had a scholarship that allowed me to attend college and graduate school. I feel the responsibility to offer the same chance to other generations.”
While easing the cost of education is critical, the Scotts believe the impact of their giving reaches far beyond dollars. “We’ve established personal connections with many of our graduates who have gone on to be role models in their own right,” Mary notes. They take joy in celebrating alumni successes, seeing in each one a reflection of NECO’s enduring legacy.
The Scotts encourage colleagues and fellow alumni to join them in supporting NECO. “I think many of our colleagues feel the same way and are on the cusp of becoming donors. We encourage them to do so. It’s gratifying on many levels.”
A Living Legacy
When asked about legacy, the Scotts are quick to point out that it’s less about recognition and more about sharing. “Legacy is what others think you’ve done. To me it’s a reflection of how well you’ve shared your knowledge, wealth, and friendship.”
Through their philanthropy, mentorship, and ongoing involvement, the Scotts continue to embody NECO’s spirit of community, generosity, and leadership—ensuring the College they call home thrives for generations to come.
The Scotts’ Scholarship: Lessening the Burden