John D. Baker, MD Pediatric Ophthalmology Symposium
A Unique Forum for Pediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Education
“Baker Day” is annual symposium that brings together pediatric ophthalmologists, orthoptists, fellows, orthoptic students, and ophthalmology residents for a day of case-based learning, collaboration, and connection. Held at Children’s Hospital of Michigan by the Dept of Ophthalmology, Baker Day is a tradition with nearly 40 years of history.
About Baker Day
Founded in the 1980s by John D. Baker, MD, a leader in pediatric ophthalmology, Baker Day was modeled after Joseph Calhoun MD’s “Joe’s Day” at Wills Eye Hospital. Dr. Baker envisioned an informal, collegial setting where pediatric ophthalmologists and orthoptists could gather to learn from one another by sharing challenging and rare pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus cases.
Today, Baker Day continues that tradition — bringing together pediatric ophthalmologists and orthoptists from across Michigan, the Midwest, Ontario, and beyond.
“We spend all day talking about complex cases, learning from each other, and discussing unique approaches.”
– John D. Baker, MD
Keynote Lecture | 8:00 – 9:00 AM
Each year begins with a guest lecture from a national leader in pediatric ophthalmology, often addressing topics like:
- Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)
- Shaken Baby Syndrome and Retinal Hemorrhages
- Pediatric eye trauma
- Advanced approaches to complex strabismus cases
Speakers have included world-renowned experts from Duke, Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, and more.
Interactive Case Discussions | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
After the keynote, the day shifts to its core: a full schedule of live case presentations. Attendees are invited to present unusual, difficult, or educational cases in short formats, sparking extended group discussion.
- Cases are presented in ~5-minute slots
- Emphasis on dialogue, differential diagnosis, and treatment approaches
- Welcoming format for both seasoned attendings and trainees
Why Attend Baker Day?
Baker Day is unlike any formal medical conference.
It’s an immersive, case-based educational forum focused on:
- Advancing diagnostic and surgical expertise
- Networking across institutions and borders
- Creating mentorship moments for trainees
- Improving care for complex pediatric and adult strabismus cases
“Some cases are so rare, you might only see one in your career. It’s a chance to ask questions and hear insights from people who’ve managed similar situations.”
Who Should Attend?
This event is designed only for:
- Pediatric Ophthalmologists
- Orthoptists and Orthoptic Students
- Pediatric Ophthalmology Fellows
- Ophthalmology Residents
Location
Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI
Centrally located for attendees from:
- Michigan
- Ohio
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Wisconsin
- Ontario, Canada
The Baker Lecture
In recent years, the event has been anchored by The John D. Baker, MD Pediatric Ophthalmology Lectureship, a named lectureship made possible by an educational endowment through Kresge Eye Institute. This honor allows us to invite top voices in pediatric ophthalmology to share their insights and research each year.
A Legacy of Learning
Baker Day is a tribute to the vision of Dr. Jack Baker, and a celebration of what makes pediatric ophthalmology special: collaboration, curiosity, and commitment to children.
“Baker Day is where friendships form, knowledge is shared, and tough cases meet brilliant minds.”
📩 Want to Attend or Present a Case?
For details on registration, email us at academic@cecmich.com.
The John D. Baker, MD Pediatric Ophthalmology Symposium (Baker Day)
Date: Friday, May 8, 2026.
Lecture – 8:00 – 9:30 am | David Hunter, MD, Chief of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital
Case Presentations – 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Children’s Hospital of Michigan, 3901 Beaubien Blvd, Detroit, MI
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
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