For more than four decades, John G. Clarkson, M.D. ’68, shaped the landscape of medical education and revolutionized eye health. From transforming the Miller School of Medicine’s campus and elevating it to national distinction to setting global standards at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, his legacy reflects vision, leadership and enduring impact.
An internationally recognized vitro-retinal specialist and academic leader, Dr. Clarkson credits the Miller School with laying the foundation for his success. “I had excellent role models and wanted to have the same impact on others,” said the dean emeritus of the Miller School and professor emeritus of ophthalmology.
As dean of the medical school from 1995 to 2006, Dr. Clarkson led a landmark capital campaign, securing a $100 million gift from the family of the late Leonard M. Miller, a South Florida businessman and philanthropist who, along with his wife, Sue, was a strong supporter of UM. In recognition of the gift, the medical school was renamed the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine.
Under Dr. Clarkson’s leadership, the school experienced unprecedented growth in research and academic excellence. He recruited top-tier faculty and oversaw the development of cutting-edge facilities, including the Schoninger Research Quadrangle, the Batchelor Children’s Research Institute and the Lois Pope LIFE Center — each a testament to his transformative vision.
“Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to be in the right place, at the right time, with the right people.”
At Bascom Palmer, he redefined excellence. As chair, he led the institute to its first of 24 No. 1 rankings nationally by U.S. News & World Report and launched Bascom Palmer’s first satellite facility in Palm Beach County, extending world-class care beyond its Miami campus.
Known for his humility, Dr. Clarkson attributes his success to those around him. “The key to success in any organization is its people,” Dr. Clarkson said. “I’ve always been fortunate to work with outstanding faculty, staff and trainees.”
Dr. Clarkson’s influence has extended nationally through leadership roles with the American Board of Ophthalmology, American Ophthalmological Society, Macula Society and American Board of Medical Specialties. His distinguished career has earned top honors, including the Lucien Howe Medal, America’s Top Doctors’ National Physician of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Miller School’s Medical Alumni Association Hall of Fame.
Even in retirement, his impact continues. He serves as executive director of the Ophthalmology Research Foundation and volunteers at an eye clinic in his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina. At home, he’s equally engaged as a devoted grandfather to five.
“Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to be in the right place, at the right time, with the right people,” said Dr. Clarkson.
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