Dr. Fugate was born in 1927 and was a lifelong resident of Columbus. He graduated from Bexley High School and then served in the United States Navy during World War II. He attended The Ohio State University, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Optometry in 1951, a Master’s of Science degree in Physiological Optics in 1953, and then returned to receive one of the first four Doctor of Optometry degrees in 1966 from Dr. Fry. Dr. Fugate taught low vision courses in the College of Optometry and served as a part-time clinical instructor for 41 years. He also practiced optometry for 52 years in Plain City and Columbus and provided exceptional leadership as a member of the boards of Vision Service Plan, the Vision Center of Central Ohio, Prevent Blindness Ohio, and the Ohio Lions Eye Research Foundation.
He was a life member of the American Optometric Association and helped establish the Diplomate in Low Vision program for the American Academy of Optometry. He was nominated for a Jefferson Award, which is given to individuals in recognition of their exemplary public service, for providing vision care to the homeless in central Ohio.
Dr. Fugate retired as a faculty member at the College in 1994. He passed away in April of 2008.