01/15/2026

In Memoriam Dr. James Scholles

The Ohio Optometric Association extends our heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. James Scholles. A visionary leader, Dr. Scholles made a lasting impact on the advancement of optometric practice and patient care. Jim was a graduate of The Ohio State University School of Optometry and later completed his law degree from Salmon P. Chase. He practiced Optometry for over 65 years, in the Finneytown area. He served as president of the Cincinnati Optometric Association, the Ohio Optometric Association (1973), and the American Optometric Association (1989). He testified before the U.S. Congress on behalf of optometry regarding Medicare co-management and helped to get optometrists recognized as physicians by Medicare.   He also participated in Federal Trade Commission hearings on "Eyeglasses 2," advocating for patients' rights and optometric independence. He chaired the Legal and Ethical Issues Committee of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry for six years and was the founding member and first president of Diversified Ophthalmics.   

“Dr. Scholles embodied the very best of optometry by serving patients with compassion well into his 80s, giving selflessly to organized optometry, advocating for its advancement, and never losing his passion for learning,” says current OOA President Elizabeth Muckley, O.D. “His life’s work reminds us that being an optometrist is not just a profession, but a lifelong commitment to service.”   

To learn more about Dr. Scholles legacy and his many contributions to the profession, please visit: Obituary | Dr. James "Jim" R. Scholles of Springfield Township, Ohio | MIHOVK ROSENACKER FUNERAL HOME and A life of optometric service: Remembering James ‘Jim’ Scholles, O.D., J.D.