OPW Awards

Doctor of Optometry of the Year:

Mark A. Maraman, OD

Dr. Mark Maraman was born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska. He attended the University of Nebraska, where he worked as an optician for an optometrist while earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and later a Master of Science in Cellular Biology/Immunology. Dr. Maraman worked in pharmaceutical sales for four and a half years before making the decision to pursue optometric studies. He then attended the Pacific University College of Optometry, graduating in 2007 as valedictorian of his class. Dr. Maraman completed a hospital-based residency in primary care, geriatric and blind rehabilitation at the Veteran's Hospital in Tacoma, WA, before joining Pacific Cataract and Laser Institute (PCLI) in 2008.

Friendly, optimistic and full of enthusiasm, Dr. Maraman's cheerful confidence and upbeat attitude make him a positive force and encouragement to others. Outside of work, he enjoys basketball, traveling, hiking, golfing, snow skiing and spending time with his family. He and his wife, Kendra, a nutrition and fitness specialist, live in Olympia, WA. They have two sons, Lucas and Reid.

Young Doctor of Optometry of the Year:

Christy L. Alfano, OD

Dr. Christy Alfano has been a member of OPW since 2022 and has demonstrated strong leadership through her service as President of the Southwest Society for the past three years. She is currently Co-President of the Society, and serves as Trustee of OPW’s Educate Division, as well as the SW and Olympic Societies.

Dr. Alfano has been actively involved in organizing Society events, legislative dinners, and the annual SW Eye Symposium. She has also participated in the Winter Board Meeting and Day in Olympia, helping educate and engage legislators on scope expansion initiatives. In 2024, she graduated from the AOA Leadership Institute. 

Jack Hale Lifetime Achievement Award:

Joseph L. Dolezal, OD

Dr. Joe Dolezal has been with Innovations in Eyecare since 1981. He received both his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry degrees from Pacific University, joining the practice after his graduation. He is an active member of the American Optometric Association and the Optometric Physicians of Washington.

His years of experience, coupled with his gentle demeanor, make him a great source to care for patients of all ages. He cares deeply about the level of care his patients receive, and this is embedded in his practice philosophy. Dr. Dolezal sees his patients for eyeglasses, contact lenses, eye infections, refractive surgery options, and many other issues they may have. It is important to Dr. Dolezal to establish long-term relationships with his patients to give optimal and consistent eye care.

Dr. Dolezal contributes to his community both academically and personally. He is a member of the Board of Trustees for Centralia College, has worked as an adjunct assistant clinical professor at Pacific University, and is a member of the Centralia High School Vocational Education Advisory Board. He also volunteers as a coordinator for the Centralia Walk ‘N Knock Food Drive and a member of the Centralia Performing and Fine Arts Council.

Robin Cameron Memorial Award:

Dana M. Spearin, OD

Dr. Dana Spearin was born and raised in Yakima Valley. She received her Doctor of Optometry degree from Pacific University College of Optometry, Forest Grove, Oregon. She has gained a lot of experience with myopia management, Ortho-K, specialty contact lenses, and pediatrics.

Dr. Spearin is currently on her second year as Co-President of OPW's Yakima Valley Society.

Society of the Year:

Mount Baker President, Jeff Ness, OD

Dr. Jeff Ness is known to be enthusiastic, caring, and dedicated. He has a passion for learning and has taken an active role in mentoring the next generation of eyecare professionals as an adjunct clinical professor for Pacific University. Dr. Ness’ Pacific Northwest roots run deep. After attending high school locally, he completed his undergraduate degree in chemistry from Pacific University and graduated from Pacific University College of Optometry in 2020. While in school, he was involved as a Trustee of the American Optometric Student Association. He is also a member of the Lynden Kiwanis and volunteers with the Bellingham Lions Club to provide no-charge eyecare.

Following graduation, Dr. Ness worked for two years as an eyecare provider in Boise, ID. He has a special interest in pediatric care, ocular disease management, ocular surgery co-management, and fitting specialty contact lenses. Dr. Ness is fluent in Spanish and welcomes all ESL patients.

As the 2025-26 President of OPW’s Mount Baker Society, Dr. Ness kept members engaged by increasing communication with a newly created and branded society newsletter. Through his efforts, he organized a well-attended legislative dinner, held regular society meetings, and ensured volunteer support for leadership and key person positions. Dr. Ness fostered a strong sense of community among society members while engaging in advocacy efforts to advance the optometric profession in Washington State.

President's Distinguished Service Award:

Dana A. Cocke’, OD

Dr. Dana Cocke’ was born and raised in Tacoma, WA. He holds a Bachelor of Sciences in Zoology with a minor in Chemistry from California State University-Stanislaus, a Bachelor of Sciences in Visual Sciences, and a Doctorate in Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. In 2016, he completed a Masters in Public Health from Salus University.

Dr. Cocke’ served on the AOA VISION USA Committee from 2004 to 2018, with the last 3 years as Committee Chair before the project was disbanded. His role included coordinating the Washington VISION USA Project from 1999 to 2018. From 2018 to 2021, he served on the AOA Third Party Center Committee before joining the OPW Executive Committee. Additionally, he served on the OPW COVID task force during the pandemic. Dr. Cocke’ has been in solo practice since 1996 to present and worked in a Puyallup Ophthalmology practice for 5 years. He has participated in VOSH trips and several MD/OD brigades in Honduras, Guatemala, and India with Sight to the Blind, Inc. In 2024, Dr. Cocke' served as President of OPW. He continues supporting the association as Chair of the Third Party Committee and Chair of the Public Health Committee. 

He lives in Tacoma with his wife and teacher, Pamela, and their two children, Cameron and Catherine.

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