Meet Our Staff
- James S. Allen, MD
- Richard P. Stanek, MD
- Alan S. Weingarden, MD
- Dan A. Nichols, MD
- Honora E. Kennedy, MD
- Thomas J. Rice, MD
- James E. George, MD
- Phillip T. Sheridan, MD
- Aaron W. Tsai, MD
- Todd M. Watanabe, MD
- Scott A. Uttley, MD
- Susan J. Quick, MD
- Eric A. Steffen, MD
- Erik S. Bachmeier, OD
- Christopher C. Schnelle, OD
:: James S. Allen, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“Ophthalmology combines medical and surgical patient care. I find surgery ‘elegant,’ the rapidly changing field challenging, and the chance to help and get to know patients pleasing. The surgery and the patients' positive response to surgery continue to be for me the most gratifying aspect of my work. I do my utmost to understand my patients needs, to meet these needs, and provide value to their experience within our clinic. I try to educate patients about their options and the consequences of these options so that they can make informed decisions rather than simply being told what will be done. I hope to give my patients the feeling that they have been listened to and cared for with dignity and respect. I believe this leads to good outcomes and superior patient satisfaction.”
In his free time, Dr. Allen works with
SEE (Surgical Eye Expeditions) and has traveled to Kenya, Romania, Peru and Namibia to perform cataract and corneal surgery for patients who are otherwise unable to receive care. His interests include biking, cross-country and downhill skiing, golf, hiking and mountaineering, photography, literature, opera and music. Dr. Allen has been recognized as a “Top Doctor” in the area for twenty years.
Board-Certified:: American Board of Ophthalmology, National Board of Medical Examiners
Fellowship:: Corneal and External Diseases, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
Residency:: Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY; General Surgery, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
Internship:: Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, San Jose, CA
Medical Degree:: University of Oregon Medical School, Portland, OR
Bachelor of Arts:: Physics, Williams College, Williamstown, MA
Member:: American Medical Association, Outpatient Ophthalmic Surgery Society, St. Paul Ophthalmological Society
Adjunct Professor :: University of Minnesota, Department of Ophthalmology, Minneapolis, MN
Licensed:: Minnesota, Wisconsin
Author & Lecturer
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::Richard P. Stanek, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“Ophthalmology is a perfect blending of primary patient care and surgery. I am attracted to the rapid, exciting advance of technology and my interactions with patients. I am relaxed and engaging with them. I feel my best quality as a practitioner is that I am a good listener to my patients’ needs, giving them the best possible care.”
Board-Certified:: American Board of Ophthalmology, LASIK-Certified, VISX®-Certified
Residency:: Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Internship:: Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN
Medical Degree:: University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN
Bachelor of Arts:: Biological Sciences, University of Minnesota
Member:: Minnesota Medical Association, Ramsey Medical Society
Adjunct Associate Professor:: University of Minnesota
Licensed:: Minnesota, Wisconsin
Author & Lecturer
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:: Alan S. Weingarden, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“This is a great field. It is constantly improving, and it gives me a wonderful opportunity to help people. We also have great technology to help us do what we need to do for our patients. I have been told that I am people-oriented and folksy in my approach to patient care. Indeed, I enjoy giving first-class care in a humanizing environment. I think my best features as a doctor are my open-mindedness and my ability to think outside the box.”
Board-Certified:: American Board of Ophthalmology
Fellowships:: Orbital Diseases, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, England; Neuro-ophthalmology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Residency:: Ophthalmology, Tufts University, Boston, MA; Boston University Department of Neurology, Boston, MA
Internship:: Abbott-Northwestern Hospital Department of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN
Medical Degree:: University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN
Bachelor of science:: Macalester College, St. Paul, MN
Member:: American Academy of Ophthalmology, Minnesota Neurosciences Society, Minnesota Medical Society, Ramsey Medical Society
Assistant Clinical Professor:: University of Minnesota, Department of Ophthalmology
Licensed:: Minnesota, Wisconsin
Author & Lecturer
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:: Dan A. Nichols, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“I’ve had a long-time interest in perception and neuroscience going back to college. That combined with the powerful therapeutic potential of ophthalmic surgery is what interested me in this field. The eye is the most fascinating organ in the body. I’m still excited and amazed as I view the eye under the microscope. I also enjoy the broad range of people I meet each day in the office; everyone eventually needs eyecare. I am analytical and problem/solution-oriented. I hope to give my patients a clear understanding of their problem and how best to proceed. I have a strong academic background in science and research, and I believe I can help each patient understand the best solution to his or her problem based on current knowledge.”
Board-Certified:: American Board of Ophthalmology
Fellowship:: Glaucoma, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
Residency:: Ophthalmology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
Internship:: Internal Medicine, Abbott-Northwestern Hospital Department of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN
Medical Degree:: University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN
Bachelor of Arts:: Child Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Member:: Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Spaeth Glaucoma Fellow Society, Ramsey Medical Society, American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery
Adjunct Clinical Professor:: University of Minnesota, Department of Ophthalmology
Licensed:: Minnesota, Wisconsin
Author & Lecturer
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:: Honora E. Kennedy, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“The eyes and vision are particularly mysterious and a source of anxiety and concern to patients, even for healthy individuals who see well. Helping my patients sort through vision issues and ‘clear up the mystery’ is very satisfying. With good communication starting with our first visit, I hope to instill confidence in my care and enhance the patient’s ability to understand and manage his or her eye problems. After a number of years in practice, I can see how my patients have changed in their lives and in their vision difficulties. This is a rewarding journey.”
Board-Certified :: American Board of Ophthalmology, LASIK-Certified, VISX®-Certified
Residency :: Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota Hospitals and Clinics, Minneapolis, MN
Internship :: Internal Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL
Medical Degree :: University of Illinois Abraham Lincoln School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
Bachelor Of Science :: Microbiology, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
Member :: American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology, Minnesota Medical Association, Ramsey Medical Society
Licensed :: Minnesota, Wisconsin
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:: Thomas J. Rice, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“I enjoy the large range of ages of my patients and the positive impact on quality of life for my patients. I also enjoy the rapidly expanding technologies and positive patient interactions. I am open and compassionate, and I take time to relieve patients’ fears and apprehensions. I believe eyecare should be fun for patients. I believe they should receive high-quality care and a sense of being taken care of. Seeing my patients become more at ease and no longer strictly focusing on their medical problems but more on the normal things in their lives is most gratifying for me.”
In his spare time, Dr. Rice enjoys spending time with his family, hunting, outdoor sports, golf, hockey and gourmet cooking (wild game).
Board-Certified :: American Board of Ophthalmology, LASIK-Certified, VISX®-Certified
Residency :: Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinics, Minneapolis, MN
Internship :: Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN
Medical Degree :: University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN
Graduate school :: Microbiology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND
Bachelor of Arts :: St. Mary’s College, Winona, MN
Member :: American Medical Association, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology, Minnesota Medical Association, Ramsey Medical Society
Licensed :: Minnesota, Wisconsin
Author
:: James E. George, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
Dr George graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in biology from Creighton University. He then obtained his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and completed his residency in ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota, where he received the Harry Plorke, M.D. award given to the most outstanding senior resident. He joined St. Paul Eye Clinic in 1996 after completing his residency.
Dr George has performed thousands of refractive procedures and cataract surgeries. He is VISX® certified to offer the latest in wavefront Custom Vue® LASIK, PRK, and performs cataract surgery utilizing state-of-the-art technology and techniques for optimal visual recovery. He is a board-certified ophthalmologist with special interests in cataract surgery, LASIK surgery, and comprehensive eye exams.
Board-Certified :: American Board of Ophthalmology; LASIK-Certified, VISX®-Certified
Residency :: Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Internship :: Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN
Medical Degree :: University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
Bachelor of Science :: Biology, Creighton University, Omaha, NE
Member :: American Academy of Ophthalmology, Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology, Ramsey Medical Society
Licensed :: Minnesota
:: Phillip T. Sheridan, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“The eye is a remarkable organ that allows us to see the world around us in vivid detail. Unfortunately, there are some diseases and age-related conditions that can decrease our sense of sight. The ability to help people preserve and even improve their vision makes practicing ophthalmology rewarding for the patient and the physician. I enjoy working with patients to find the best way to protect and improve their ability to see and experience life. Whether using contacts and glasses or surgically correcting vision using LASIK, LASEK, PRK or cataract surgery, I have found that discussing all options with each patient allows us to find the best treatment plan."“My practice style is attentive, caring and relaxed. At the end of the exam, I always ask whether the patient has any more questions. By discussing all problems, concerns and treatment options, I hope to provide my patients with quality care, personal attention and excellent results. The needs of the patient always come first.”
Board-Certified :: American Board of Ophthalmology
Residency :: Ophthalmology, Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, Rochester, MN
Internship :: Mayo Graduate School of Medicine
Medical Degree :: Mayo Medical School, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
Bachelor of Arts :: Mathematics, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN
Member :: American Academy of Ophthalmology, Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology, Minnesota Medical Association, Ramsey Medical Society
Certification :: LASIK-Certified, VISX®-Certified
Licensed :: Minnesota
Author & Lecturer
:: Aaron W. Tsai, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“My father developed a significant, recurring inflammatory problem with his eyes when I was a teenager. He underwent several surgeries and treatments, and I was scared he would go blind. I remember thinking that I didn’t want any other kid to go through that scenario and vowed to figure out a way to prevent this condition from affecting others. I ended up working in the lab of my father’s eye surgeon and through those experiences I knew, once I entered medical school, that I would become an eye surgeon.“I love interacting with so many people from different walks of life each day. Whether they have a sight-threatening condition like glaucoma, need cataract surgery, want LASIK or just need a new supply of contacts, it’s really satisfying to be in a position to help people see better.
“I try my hardest to listen to each patient ‘with my eyes,’ and to treat them as if they were my own sibling, parent or cousin — with care and compassion. I want each patient to leave knowing that their questions were heard and addressed and that we have a solution to a problem, or at least we are working hard to find that solution. I want to give each patient the best possible vision. I know that I have the privilege as an eye surgeon to serve others, to listen to their needs and to do my best to help them see better. Every day is a joy to come to work!”
In his free time, Dr. Tsai enjoys golf, tennis and teaching Sunday school.
Board-Certified :: American Board of Ophthalmology, LASIK-Certified, VISX®-Certified
Residency :: Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Internship :: Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN
Medical Degree :: University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN
Bachelor of Arts :: Human Biology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
Member :: American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology, Ramsey Medical Society
Clinical Associate Professor:: University of Minnesota, Department of Ophthalmology, Minneapolis,MN
Licensed :: Minnesota
Author & Lecturer
:: Todd M. Watanabe, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“Fun and games. Those are the two words that most accurately describe my typical day in the clinic. Each day, I play with toys, watch movies and interact with children. During ‘playtime,’ I am able to collect valuable information to diagnose and treat eye disease. It gives me great personal satisfaction knowing that I can make a lifelong difference in how a child sees. I often reflect on how lucky I am to be able to do what I do... preserving and saving vision while having fun and playing games. Could there be a better job?”
Board-Certified :: American Board of Ophthalmology
FellowSHIP :: Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Residency :: Ophthalmology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
Internship :: Internal Medicine, Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara, CA
Medical Degree :: UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
Bachelor of Arts :: Microbiology, University of California at Santa Barbara, CA
Member :: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus, Minnesota Medical Association, Ramsey Medical Society
Licensed :: Minnesota
:: Scott A. Uttley, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
Dr Uttley graduated from New Mexico State University with a degree in biochemistry and then obtained his medical degree from the University of New Mexico. After completing his residency in ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota, he underwent specialized training in a Cornea and Anterior Segment Fellowship at the University of Minnesota.
As adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota, Dr Uttley is a noted lecturer to fellow ophthalmology residents and medical students. He has given many lectures at the American Academy of Ophthalmology annual meetings and is past President of the Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology.
His specialty areas include corneal disease, corneal transplants, LASIK, and cataract and anterior segment surgery. He is VISX® certified to offer the latest in wavefront Custome Vue® LASIK and PRK. He also see patients for comprehensive eye exams and contact lenses.
Board-Certified :: American Board of Ophthalmology, LASIK-Certified, VISX®-Certified
Fellowship :: Cornea and External Disease, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Residency :: Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Internship :: Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM
Medical Degree :: University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM
Bachelor of Science :: Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM
Member :: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology, Minnesota Medical Association, Ramsey Medical Society
Adjunct Assistant Professor :: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Licensed :: Minnesota, Wisconsin
:: Susan J. Quick, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“Ophthalmology allows you to make a huge difference by helping people with their sight. I get to see patients of all ages and both genders. The advancements are incredible; I love to offer all of the newest technologies to aid in people’s sight. I love to work with people and I love to help people and be of service. Every patient is a challenge and brings their own unique combination of needs, desires and medical issues. I approach each patient as a new challenge. I hope to give my patients the best possible care with the most up-to-date technologies and advancements. I believe in one kind of healthcare: caring, professional, honest healthcare. I listen to people carefully in order to figure out how best to help them.”
Board-Certified :: American Board of Ophthalmology, LASIK-Certified, VISX®-Certified
Residency :: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
Internship :: David Grant Medical Center, Captain, United States Air Force, Travis AFB, CA
Medical Degree :: Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
Member :: American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, American Medical Association, Minnesota Medical Association, Ramsey Medical Society,
Bachelor of Science :: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Licensed :: Minnesota, Wisconsin
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:: Eric A. Steffen, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
“What I like most about my profession is having the ability to develop long-term patient relationships and to be able to help surgically when needed. I like using technology, and ophthalmology is on the forefront of technology with leading-edge lasers, surgical devices and instruments. I enjoy helping preserve and restore people’s vision and my daily interaction with patients. Developing long-term relationships with patients is important to me. I hope to give my patients an understanding of what is happening to them and confidence that they are getting the best care they can possibly get. I believe my strengths are my abilities to listen and explain what is happening to patients.”
Board-Certified:: American Board of Ophthalmology
Fellowship:: Glaucoma, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI
Residency:: Chief Resident, Ophthalmology, Eastern Virginia School of Medicine, Norfolk, VA
Internship:: Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Deaconess Central Hospital, St. Louis, MO
Medical Degree:: Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE
Member:: American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Virginia Society of Ophthalmology
Bachelor of Science:: Chemistry, Creighton University, Omaha, NE
Licensed:: Minnesota, Wisconsin
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:: Erik S. Bachmeier, OD
Optometrist
“I always wanted to work in healthcare, form long-lasting patient relationships and help improve the quality of life for my patients. I like optometry because it includes elements of math and different sciences that interest me. Most of all, I like getting to know my patients and building a solid rapport with them. Patients say I am very understanding, friendly and professional. During my comprehensive exams, I take the time to listen to their concerns and answer any questions they have.“My goal is early detection of any problems and the best possible solution for their personal eyecare needs. I think it makes for a comfortable patient-doctor relationship. My patients are open with me in regard to their medical history, which helps me give them the best possible care. When patients are happy, it makes it wonderful to come to work each day.”
Optometric Degree:: Illinois College of Optometry, Chicago, IL
Member:: American Optometric Association
Bachelor of Science:: University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND
Licensed:: Minnesota, Wisconsin
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:: Christopher C. Schnelle, OD
Optometrist
“I find optometry a particularly rewarding area of health care because of the tremendous impact that can be made in the everyday lives of patients. I like to form a partnership with patients to help them protect, and enhance, their vision to the highest degree possible. I think it is important to understand and integrate the patient into their care because each patient has particular needs special to them whether they are 6 or 106. Building this relationship with the patient helps both of us to determine the treatments that are available and are best for them. It is my goal that each patient feels that all of their concerns have been addressed, and that I have evaluated the best possible solutions to treat, or prevent, any interference to their vision, overall health, or comfort.”
Optometric Degree:: Illinois College of Optometry, Chicago, IL
RESIDENCY :: Dimock Community Health Center, Boston, MA
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE :: University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA
Member:: American Optometric Association, American Academy of Optometrists, Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity.
Licensed:: Minnesota, Wisconsin
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