EssilorLuxottica Contributes $300,000 to AAOF

EssilorLuxottica Contributes $300,000 to American Academy of Optometry Foundation

For the OD/PhD Scholarship Program for ODs to Pursue Higher Education in the Vision Care Field

EssilorLuxottica will contribute $300,000 to the American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF).

The contribution, announced at the AAOF’s Celebration Luncheon on Saturday, November 9th, will help support optometrists pursuing their PhD in a vision science field.

Recognizing the current demand and need to teach the next generation of optometrists and researchers, the AAOF’s OD/PhD Program encourages ODs to pursue a PhD in a vision science field such as Physiological Optics, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health or Neuroscience.

The AAOF’s OD/PhD Program is a crucial initiative aimed at addressing the growing need for PhD-level faculty in the field of optometry. By encouraging ODs to pursue advanced degrees in vision science fields, the program seeks to ensure that the next generation of optometrists and researchers are well-prepared to advance the field and ultimately elevate the standard of patient care.

“To ensure the future of optometry, it’s important that we make critical investments in education. We’re proud to support the AAO Foundation in their efforts to ensure the next generation of ODs has the most expansive, richest education surrounding vision care,” said Fabrizio Uguzzoni, President of Professional Solutions, EssilorLuxottica Americas

Olga Prenat, Global Head of Medical and Professional Affairs at EssilorLuxottica, emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “This program is important, and we hope that it will encourage ODs to study for a PhD; thus, allowing to create impact on the future development of optometry by fostering innovation and driving forward research. Academia and researchers have been significantly contributing to eye and vision care not only in the US, but also internationally.”

“As President of the American Academy of Optometry Foundation, I am pleased to announce the launch of five new OD/PhD fellowships,” said AAOF President, Dr. Rachel A. “Stacey” Coulter. “The fellowships are designed to support the next generation of leaders in optometry and vision science, and to provide them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities to drive impactful change in their fields. This investment is essential to support a vibrant future for optometric practice and for our communities and organizations.”

About the American Academy of Optometry Foundation

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation is the 501(c)(3) philanthropic arm of the American Academy of Optometry. It was founded in 1947 for “upholding, broadening, fostering, promoting, and aiding optometric education, the profession of optometry, and its practitioners.” The Foundation provides financial support for optometric research and vision and eye health education to improve patient clinical care. Learn more at www.aaopt.org/aaof.

About EssilorLuxottica

EssilorLuxottica is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, frames and sunglasses. With over 190,000 employees across 150 countries, 650 operations facilities and 18,000 stores, its mission is to help people around the world to see more and be more by addressing their evolving vision needs and personal style aspirations.   www.essilorluxottica.com.