The Dr. Richard Laudon Endowed Scholarship
For more than four decades, Richard C. Laudon, OD ‘75, shaped the field of pediatric optometry and inspired generations of NECO students to pursue excellence in binocular vision and vision therapy. A proud member of the Class of 1975, Dr. Laudon joined NECO’s faculty immediately after graduation and dedicated the next 42 years to teaching, mentoring, and advancing clinical care—retiring on his 70th birthday as a tenured Associate Professor.
A pioneer in pediatric optometry, Dr. Laudon specialized in treating children with complex needs—those facing learning differences, concussions, or developmental challenges. His work extended beyond the exam room; he developed innovative home-based therapy regimens that empowered patients to practice daily, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits. Known for his compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to students, he helped establish NECO’s reputation for excellence in pediatric eye care. “The pediatric department at NECO would not be the same without Dr. Laudon’s influence,” said Dr. Nicole Quinn, Professor of Optometry. “His impact is felt in every patient encounter and every student who graduates ready to care for children with specialized needs.”
In March 2025, NECO honored his extraordinary legacy by creating the Dr. Richard Laudon Endowed Scholarship, a permanent fund supporting fourth-year OD students pursuing careers in binocular vision and vision therapy. For President Howard Purcell, the scholarship is both a tribute and an investment: “Dr. Laudon’s career exemplifies the best of NECO—clinical expertise, innovation, and mentorship. This scholarship ensures that his life’s work will continue to change lives for years to come.”
A Second Act
Although deeply proud of his career at NECO, Dr. Laudon has emphasized that his contributions did not end with his retirement. Drawing on decades of mentoring students in both clinical care and professional development, he turned his focus to a critical gap in optometric training: financial literacy. Too often, he saw graduates enter the profession unprepared to manage personal finances, invest wisely, or balance their careers with personal goals.
“His impact is felt in every patient encounter and every student who graduates ready to care for children with specialized needs.”
– Nicole Quinn, OD
Throughout his career and especially in retirement, he began lecturing on personal and behavioral finance, developing seminars that combine practical money management with insights into human decision-making. He has also co-authored materials and educational programs with colleagues such as Dr. Pat Pirotte, equipping healthcare professionals with tools for long-term financial security. At the same time, he shares his insights more broadly through essays on Medium covering wellness, health, and financial literacy.
Beyond his writing and teaching, Dr. Laudon remains active in the community, devoting time to senior softball, where he runs the Pioneers Division (part of the EMASS Senior Softball Division), reflecting the same dedication and passion that shaped his clinical career. He also encourages fellow alumni and donors to consider a sustainable approach to philanthropy—a personal call for alumni to give as little as $10 a month on one’s credit card—a small but powerful commitment that could secure NECO’s future. This challenge is grounded in his own history of giving more than $100,000 to the College.
Looking ahead, Dr. Laudon continues to expand his influence. He will be featured in the upcoming Natural Health 365 iHealth Docuseries, presenting on vision therapy, and he continues to explore ways to use his written work and expertise to reach broader audiences.
A Legacy that Bridges Two Worlds
Dr. Laudon’s life work—whether in the exam room, the classroom, or in his writing—remains rooted in empowerment. His goal has always been to equip others with the tools they need to thrive, whether that means helping a child with their visual and learning challenges, guiding a graduate toward financial independence, or inspiring alumni to give back.
Today, his legacy is carried forward by students like Toby Wercberger, OD ’25, the inaugural Dr. Richard Laudon Scholarship recipient, who embodies the compassion, skill, and vision that defined Dr. Laudon’s career.
As Dr. Laudon reflects, “Hopefully, in our passing, our life will be celebrated, in a similar manner as it was at the moment of our birth.” His legacy is already being celebrated—by patients, students, alumni, and the generations of optometrists and professionals who continue to be inspired by his example.
How the Laudon Scholarship is Making an Impact for Toby Wercberger, OD’25