2020 Annual Report

President’s Message David A. Heath, OD, EdM

2020—“The Year of Vision” has opened our eyes in more ways than imagined. The pandemic and pivotal social and political events that defined 2020 reframed our reality, but made it clear that the SUNY College of Optometry is ready to rise to any challenge. From reinventing how we teach, learn, and work to ensuring the continuity of patient care with telehealth and strict health/safety protocols, every individual within the College stepped beyond their everyday role, joining forces to navigate new challenges and uncertainty, find solutions, fill gaps, and adapt. As a healthcare- focused community, we reaffirmed the value of collaboration and the primacy of our obligation to safeguard public health while embracing a new norm. Beyond the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 also shed light on critical issues of division, disparities, and injustice that continue to impede progress for people of color in our society and indeed, within our profession. This year the College took greater strides to ensure a diverse and dynamic community that is safe, honest, and celebrates the differences of its members. Actions included the formation of the President’s Task Force on Race and Equity, hosting a three-part webinar on Race in Optometry , and hiring a Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging in early 2021. We are determined to be part of the solution by building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community of care that reflects our growing population. As we reflect on 2020—the Year of Vision and our many achievements, we enter 2021 with renewed vigor and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for our dynamic and dedicated community. The upcoming year marks the College’s 50th anniversary in which we will continue to give thanks to students, alumni, faculty, staff, partners, and patients who make our success possible.

Dr. David A. Heath President

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