05/14/2026
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of corneal specialist James Aquavella, MD, who played a vital role in establishing and growing the Flaum Eye Institute.
Dr. Aquavella was a pioneering corneal surgeon, an innovative clinician-scientist, an extraordinary academic leader, and one of the foundational figures in the history of ophthalmology at the University of Rochester and the Flaum Eye Institute. His impact on our field, our institution, and generations of patients, trainees, and colleagues is immeasurable.
Beyond his remarkable clinical and academic accomplishments, Dr. Aquavella was deeply respected for his intellect, compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to excellence. He helped shape modern corneal surgery and built a legacy that continues to influence ophthalmic care around the world. Countless physicians were trained, mentored, and inspired by his example.
He was also well known for his boundless generosity, endowing two professorships at the Eye Institute and making multiple gifts of paintings and sculpture to the Memorial Art Gallery. He will be deeply missed by his colleagues, friends, and patients, to whom he provided compassionate and expert care.
