The Ferris State University Distinguished Alumni Award is bestowed on individuals who demonstrate leadership and service to their profession, community, service organizations and alma mater. One of four chosen for this honor this year is Allegan’s own, Dr. Paul Hodge.
Dr. Paul Hodge is an accomplished optometrist and the founder of Allegan Eyecare PC, where he has served the Allegan, Michigan community since 1989. A graduate of Ferris State University’s College of Optometry in 1985, Hodge has built a reputation for excellence in his field, opening and expanding his practice, and even welcoming his daughter, Dr. Amanda Hodge-Berranen (MCO 2011), to the practice as a fellow optometrist. In 2022, Hodge-Berranen purchased the practice, and, together, they deliver top-tier services, ensuring that generations of patients benefit from their expertise.
Hodge has been highly active in professional organizations throughout his career. He served in multiple roles on the Michigan Optometric Association Board of Trustee,s eventually becoming its president. He has also contributed to the American Optometric Association, serving on its Fund for Disaster Relief Committee and holding leadership roles on committees such as the Meetings and Member Experiences Committee. His work with the North Central Optometric Council and the American Board of Optometry further highlights his commitment to advancing the field. Hodge’s numerous awards include the MOA Distinguished Service Award, MOA Optometrist of the Year, and the American Optometric Association Presidents Award. He earned a fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry in 2000.
Hodge is deeply involved in his community. He has held many leadership positions with the Lions Club, including district governor and vice council chair, earning recognition as a Lions International Melvin Jones Fellow and Lions of Michigan Service Foundation Ken Lautzenheiser Fellow. He has received the Allegan Area Chamber of Commerce Community Service and Tibbitts Legacy awards. Hodge serves on the Allegen Public Schools Board of Education and received the Allegan Public Schools School bell Award for Outstanding Service. He also serves on the Ascension Borgess Allegan Board of Trustees. With his wife, Vicki, he has established the Hodge Family Optometry Endowed Scholarship, supporting future generations of optometrists at Ferris State.
