For nearly 50 years, Dee Kleinman has supported University Hospitals in countless ways, as both a volunteer and a philanthropist. In recognition of her exceptional treatment under the care of Douglas Rhee, MD, she made a gift to establish the James & Dolores Kleinman Chair in Ophthalmology, which includes additional support from The Cleveland Eye Bank Foundation.

Dr. Rhee, Chair, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, UH Cleveland Medical Center, and director of the UH Eye Institute, will serve as the inaugural chairholder.

This is the second endowed position Dee has created. In 2018, she established the Dee Kleinman Director of Volunteer Services, which is held by Carol Passerell, CVA.

“Dr. Rhee is one of the most compassionate and dedicated physicians I have ever met,” Dee explained. “He’s a wonderful teacher, ensuring his patients understand their condition and have the time to ask as many questions as necessary.”

A glaucoma specialist, molecular biologist and board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Rhee treats both adult and childhood glaucomas, and is nationally recognized as an innovator and early adopter of new surgical techniques. He was one of the first five surgeons in the world to perform a procedure that would later become recognized as the first minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.

This endowed position will allow him to advance his top research priorities, including the search for a glaucoma cure.

“Gifts like Dee’s are what allow us to continue to make the incredible scientific discoveries UH is known for. I am so grateful for her support and the support of other donors like her who believe in our mission,” said Dr. Rhee.

“When I think of Dr. Rhee, I picture him running through the office, coattails flying behind him, as he helps one patient after another,” Dee said. “His commitment to his patients and the future of eye care is unmatched and I am honored to support his important work.”