Anthony F. Di Stefano, O.D., M.Ed., M.P.H., F.A.A.O., F.C. Optom. (Hon)
Past Executive Director, WCO
The WCO community is deeply saddened by the sudden death of Melissa Padilla, a colleague and friend, who made a distinctive contribution to the growth of the WCO. In 1997 Melissa assumed the role of Director of Communications and Professional Service. Her leadership skills and passion for global public health causes, were rewarded by her appointment as the WCO Executive Director in 2005. Her accomplishments included the implementation of global initiatives such as the World Conferences on Optometric Education (WCOE) and the historical World Conference on Optometric Globalization (WCOG).
Melissa’s dedication and loyalty permeated everything she did – she was born to be a leader, a passionate learner, and an exquisite communicator. Her global work with the WCO ultimately led to her receiving a Diploma in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and Master of Public Health Program (MPH) which she received in 2013 from Salus University.
“Melissa Padilla was an enormous asset to WCO while the organization was at PCO. As an administrator, she was always responsive to members’ needs. She was an excellent communicator in spite of any cultural and linguistic differences among member countries… It was such a delightful experience for me to have worked with her globally during her tenure with WCO. Together with Tony Di Stefano, she guided WCO’s activities efficiently and effectively throughout those years.” Former WCO President, Prof. George Woo.
“She was tireless, extremely loyal and a competent colleague…. Indispensable to the program and strategic development of WCO.” Scott Brisbin, former WCO President.