Vision 2000 was a comprehensive campaign designed to increase the awareness, recognition, and funding for the advancement of ophthalmology services and research at Upstate Medical University (UMU).

Astounding to many people is the fact that UMU is one of the worldwide leaders in the research of blinding conditions. In fact, each of our scientists is internationally recognized and many are on the verge of significant breakthroughs in the war against blindness. The fact that many of the country's leading ophthalmic research institutions are using techniques developed at UMU is a testimony to our innovation.

The Vision 2000 endowment has grown to over $1.5 million from wide-spread community support, including $250,000 from the dedicated Lions District 20Y-1. It was the funds that were generated from Vision 2000 that allowed the Center for Vision Research to grow and expand into a group of over 50 dedicated vision scientists.