Cheryl J Powell

Dr. Cheryl J. Powell was a remarkable individual-fierce, brilliant, and unapologetically herself. As a trailblazing eye surgeon and tireless advocate for equity, she transformed lives both within and beyond the operating room. She lived boldly, gave generously, and made her presence known across various arenas, whether in medicine, on mission trips, or at music festivals.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, to Barbara, an artist and community leader, and Seldon, a jazz musician, Cheryl grew up on Long Island with her beloved siblings, John and Barbara. After graduating from high school in just three years, she attended Hofstra University and the University of Georgia before earning her MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin. She completed her internship at Maryland General Hospital and her ophthalmology residency at Howard University Hospital.

In 1995, Dr. Powell opened her private practice in South Central Los Angeles-the only ophthalmology clinic of its kind in the area. There, she provided sight-saving care to thousands of underserved patients, specializing in cataract and anterior segment surgeries. Her clinic was more than just a medical office; it was a beacon of access, dignity, and compassion.

Dr. Powell's impact on the medical community was profound. She made history as the first Black female eye surgeon at California Hospital, Temple Community Hospital, and Good Samaritan Hospital. Her leadership extended into medical societies, including the Charles R. Drew Medical Society and the Golden State Medical Association. She also served as Chief of Surgery at Los Angeles Metropolitan Medical Center, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of surgery.

Dr. Powell mentored with intention. As a faculty member at the UCLA Jules Stein Eye Institute and the Martin Luther King Jr. Department of Ophthalmology, she taught, trained, and advocated for the next generation of ophthalmologists. Her involvement with the Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring Program, the Rabb-Venable Research Program, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), of which she became a member in 1985, demonstrated her lifelong commitment to equity and inclusion. She received the AAO Poster Award in 1986, was named a Life Fellow in 2020, and remained active in advocacy and mentorship until 2023.

A proud member of the National Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Powell frequently spoke on issues such as disparities in vision care, barriers to surgery, and the importance of minority representation in the medical field. Her accolades included the 2017 Roman-Barnes Leadership Award, the 2018 UCLA Teaching and Senior Honor Awards, the inaugural Patricia E. Bath Lectureship Award, and the 2024 NMA Outstanding Service Award.

Her healing hands reached far, as she traveled on medical missions to the Caribbean and Africa, providing sight-restoring cataract surgeries and training local eye surgeons. Her humanitarian efforts were boundless, matched only by her joy for life.

Cheryl was not only a brilliant surgeon but also a vibrant individual with a zest for life. She had a deep love for music, especially Michael Jackson, which was reflected in her lively birthday celebrations. Known for her vibrant personality and creativity, she brought fun and enthusiasm to every gathering. Her love for the beach, Jeopardy!, Halloween costumes, autumn leaves, and travel was infectious. There was always a soundtrack playing in the background, and her presence was unforgettable in every room she entered.

May she rest in power and eternal peace.