Biography

Dr. Ralph Herring is a native Texan and third-generation optometrist. Born and raised in Amarillo, he came to the University of Houston to complete both his undergraduate and Doctor of Optometry degrees. He went on to complete a residency in Family Practice Optometry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry and later earned a Master of Healthcare Administration from Texas Woman’s University. After a year in private practice in Lubbock, Dr. Herring returned to his alma mater, where he has been a faculty member for more than 40 years.

He currently serves as Assistant Dean for Professional Studies, Director of External Education, and Third-Year and Fourth-Year Clinic Course Director. In these roles, he administers the senior-level clinical training program at the UH Eye Care Center and oversees a network of more than 70 affiliated public and private clinics across Houston, Texas, and the nation. Dr. Herring is also a Clinical Professor, teaching in multiple patient care services, and has contributed to many college committees throughout his tenure.

Dr. Herring became a Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry in 2014. His professional memberships include the American Optometric Association, Texas Optometric Association, Beta Sigma Kappa, and the American Public Health Association.

A strong advocate for service, Dr. Herring, has volunteered with Special Olympics for nearly 25 years and now serves as a Regional Clinical Advisor for the Special Olympics Lions Club International Opening Eyes program. He previously served on the boards of Special Olympics Texas and Congregation Emanu El and has been a member of Lions Club International since 1983. He also serves on the Endowment Board of the Montrose Center.

His leadership and commitment have been recognized with the 2024 William Pittman, O.D., Award from the Texas Optometric Association and the 2019 Distinguished Service Award from the American Public Health Association Vision Care Section.