Narsing Rao, MD, Professor of Ophthalmology and Interim Dean of the Keck School of Medicine of USC, was awarded the 2020 International Gold Award by the Chinese Ophthalmological Society on Nov. 20. The gold award is given to recognize an international ophthalmologist who has made outstanding achievements in vision, eye research and eye care, and has also generated a significant contribution to the development of Chinese ophthalmology.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic prevented Rao from attending the award ceremony in person in Xiamen, he sent a video recording of himself accepting the award and expressing his gratitude.

“It is my great honor to receive the International Gold Award of Chinese Ophthalmological Society 2020. Please accept my apology for not being present to receive this wonderful honor. Even though we are all going through a very challenging and unprecedented time, I want you to know that your society this year will be a great success, thanks to the great work of everyone involved. I have had many trips to China and have personally observed the progress of the science of ophthalmology in your country. Congratulations to all of you! Please keep safe and healthy.”