Arthur R. Dampier,  Jr.  O.D.

A proud native Mississipian, Dr. Dampier graduated from Xavier University New Orleans in 1992 and went on to SCO in Memphis were he received his Doctorate of Optometry in 1997. Following graduation, Dr. Dampier started a private practice in West Point, MS. After 3 years of practice, he realized the importance of practicing where he wanted to live so he moved back to his hometown of Jackson, MS and started a commercial practice at Wal-Mart. He grew his independent commercial practice over the next 7 years. The practice grew to serving over 4000 pts yearly and Dr. Dampier was named Wal-Mart Doctor of the Year in MS in his time there.

In 2008, realized his dream of private practice and built Ridgeland Eyecare Center, a 3600 sq ft building in metro Jackson, MS. He was named one of America's Top Optometrists by the Consumer Research Council of America for 2004-2005. In 2007, the MOA recognized Dr. Dampier as the Young O.D. of the Year for the state.

In 2008 he was elected secretary-treasurer of the Mississippi Optometry Association and was installed at the 2012 summer convention as president of Mississippi Optometry Association. He was also chosen as one of the Top 40 Under 40 by the Mississippi Business Journal. 

"Dr. Dampier has used his talents and training to help educate people about the importance of eyecare and to encourage young people to consider careers in optometry," said Dr. Steven Reed, past president of MOA. "He is a wonderful role model who cares very much about the
community and about his profession."
Dr. Dampier was also recognized as the James Brownlee O.D. of the Year for MS in 2015 and was nominated for O.D. of the Year for the South at SECO that year.

He has served as the Past President of the MS NOA and the MS Vision Foundation. He currently serves Secretary-Treasurer/Vice Chair of the MS State Board Of Optometry and he is in his second term. Dr. Dampier is currently President and Director of Ridgeland Eyecare Center, Inc. in Ridgeland, MS. In its 13th year, Ridgeland Eyecare has one associate doctor and employs 10 full time staff. REC is focused mostly on primary care optometry with an emphasis on specialty contacts, co-managing LASIK patients and high end eyewear.

Dr. Dampier is currently married to Joiiya K. Dampier and has 5 children, 3 girls and 2 boys ranging from 25 to 14. His hobbies include running and exercise, reading, traveling, music, live sporting events and he is a foodie for sure. He serves on the security team at his church. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha and loves New Orleans Saints football. He is passionate about mentoring and has been involved with mentoring programs with 100 Black Men of America and currently with the Unite MS Foundation. Lastly, he feels that it is his calling to mentor young black professionals and provide leadership and opportunities when possible.