Linda S. Rouse, OD, MBA

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.—Nova Southeastern University (NSU) has announced that Linda S. Rouse, OD, MBA, will become the permanent dean of NSU’s College of Optometry. One year ago, Rouse was appointed interim dean, succeeding former dean David Loshin. In that time, Rouse has assembled a strong administrative team committed to advancing the college programs to preeminence through enhancement of curriculum, specialty clinical experiences, research, scholarship opportunities and philanthropic gifts, according to the university’s recent announcement. Rouse’s effective leadership helped navigate the didactic and clinical programs through the COVID-19 pandemic, and the college has emerged stronger than ever. Rouse will begin her appointment as Dean effective immediately, the announcement noted.

Rouse joined the College of Optometry in 2003 as assistant professor and chief of optical services. She was promoted in 2005 to chief operations officer of The Eye Care Institute and then to assistant dean for finance and operations. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Rouse is an active clinician, educator, researcher, and university and community service member.
 
She developed an optical education curriculum for third and fourth-year students. Rouse’s interests range from optometric practice management and ophthalmic optics to a particular interest in neuro-eye and posterior segment diseases of the eye.

Rouse is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and a member of the American Optometric Association, Florida Optometric Association, and the Broward County Optometric Association. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry and actively participates in the clinical administrators and directors special interest group and on the financial affairs committee.