David Cockrell – Optometrist

David Cockrell is an esteemed optometrist who has made a lasting impact on his community. As an influential leader within Optometry, he has worked to protect patients across America from unsafe care.

He is the past president of both the American Optometric Association (AOA) and Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians, serving on numerous committees and boards for both organizations. Additionally, he has testified before U.S. Senate committees as well as State legislative bodies and administrative agencies.

Early Life and Education

Cockrell was born in Pittsburgh on May 9, 1924 and earned her bachelor’s degree in art from Carnegie Mellon University. Later, she earned a master’s degree in the same subject from UCLA, continuing to teach art for most of her life.

As a city council member, she worked to include San Antonio in Model Cities – an urban improvement program sponsored by Congressman Henry B. Gonzalez and part of President Lyndon Baines Johnson’s War on Poverty.

In 1968, she was the lone dissenting vote on the council against building HemisFair ’68 on urban renewal land. Additionally, she battled against demolishing Poland Quarter – located adjacent to the fairgrounds – and relocating residents in La Villita, a residential neighborhood close by.

Professional Career

David Cockrell pursued a career in medicine after college. He became an optometrist in Oklahoma with his wife Cherry Cockrell (OD ’81) running their practice together.

Eventually, he moved on to a professional career in boxing with business partner Robert Hollis signing a contract with former amateur boxer Jarrell Newton.

Cockrell and Hollis will receive 33.3% of the fighter’s purse for managing his career.

He enjoys hunting and fishing in his free time. Additionally, he likes traveling and reading. Additionally, he and his wife have two children.

Achievements and Honors

David Cockrell has earned a number of accolades throughout his career. He is an honorary member of the American Academy of Optometry and was inducted into the National Optometry Hall of Fame.

He is an outspoken supporter of patient safety and quality care. As former president of the American Optometric Association, he testified before Congress and the Federal Trade Commission against lowering contact lens standards as well as other key safety concerns for patients.

He is also a licensed Massage Therapist, working to promote healing through touch. He believes that the body has an innate capacity for self-healing, and uses this understanding to assist his clients in reaching their objectives. His passion lies in relieving stress and headaches for those he serves – among other conditions.

Personal Life

David Cockrell is an inspiring OD who takes great care in his patients and strives to advance the field of Optometry. He has held multiple leadership roles and been recognized with numerous awards.

After earning his Doctor of Optometry degree at Southern College of Optometry, he and his wife opened their practice in Stillwater. Together, they strive to enhance patients’ vision by offering top-notch eyecare services as well as helping them maintain good overall health.

David Cockrell enjoyed spending time with his family, in addition to his career. He and his wife are the parents of five children, as well as his siblings and many other family members.

Net Worth

David Cockrell boasts a net worth of $24.1 Million. He serves as Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, and Director at Sanderson Farms.

On December 22, 2021, Sanderson Farms stockholder David M. Sanderson owned over 16,500 units and made 25 trades since 2003, the last being on December 22, 2021 for $3,366,000.

He earns $1,217,470 as Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, and Chief Legal Officer at Sanderson Farms.

He is one of the highest paid executives at Sanderson Farms, receiving a total compensation package of $1,217,470 from the company. Additionally, he holds 98,658 shares of stock in his Sanderson Farms account; his largest trade was exercising 19,600 units on October 31 2011 worth over $3,998,400.