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
RELATED POSTS
What’s new with pediatric glaucoma
First Student Graduates from Orthoptic Training Program
Martha Wright, CO, COT is the first student to graduate from CEC’s orthoptic training program. We are proud to announce that our first orthoptic student has successful completed our orthoptic training program. Martha Wright, CO, COT has completed the intensive program as well as passed her written boards and oral boards with the American Orthoptic Council. Martha is now
Oct. 04, 2013
Vision Through Music®: Expanding Access to Music for Blind and Visually Impaired Children
At our pediatric ophthalmology practice in Southeast Michigan, we’re proud to support Vision Through Music®, a national initiative from the Children’s Eye Foundation of AAPOS, in partnership with the Academy of Music for the Blind (AMB). Lisa Bohra, MD — who is deeply passionate about both music and helping children with vision challenges — is so excited about this program
Mar. 26, 2025
Nina Palomba completes CEC’s Orthoptic Program
We are proud to announce that our orthoptic student has successful completed our two year orthoptic training program. Nina Palomba, BS, COA has completed the intensive program as well as passed her written boards. This fall she will take her oral boards with the American Orthoptic Council to become a board-certified orthoptist. She will then join the Department of
Aug. 26, 2015
Hiring Pediatric Ophthalmic Technicians – Metro Detroit
Pediatric Ophthalmic Technician – Join a Leading Team in Pediatric Eye Care! Are you ready to launch or elevate your career in ophthalmic technology? We’re looking for passionate, detail-oriented, and motivated individuals to join our team. Why This Role? We are one of the nation’s premier pediatric ophthalmology practices, offering a unique blend of private practice, teaching and academic medicine. We are seeking ophthalmic technicians.
Apr. 12, 2025
view all articles