2022-Annual-Report

Every Opportunity for Building Success

Top students, with some of the highest OAT scores, from around the country and beyond, seek out SUNY College of Optometry.

Its location in the heart of Manhattan, the immensely diverse experience caring for patients at the renowned University Eye Center, and the forward-thinking curriculum at the College positions graduates for success. The number of matriculated Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) students at SUNY Optometry has grown steadily over the last decade, reaching a record number of acceptances in 2022. This dramatic increase demonstrates the importance of continuing to invest in historically underrepresented students. With support from funders, CSTEP students at SUNY Optometry become part of a cohort, SUNY-Irises, now over 60 students strong, who receive mentorship throughout their journey at the College. Exemplifying innovative academic initiative, the expansion of the College’s Microcredential Programs offers students advanced academic, clinical, and professional opportunities beyond the Doctor of Optometry (OD) curriculum. Focused specialty areas include cornea and contact lenses, glaucoma, low vision-ocular disease, pediatrics, and vision rehabilitation. Students accepted into the program examine a subspecialty through strategically tailored learning experiences, while also receiving small group faculty mentorship. Since beginning two years ago, 64 students have completed or are currently enrolled in the five Microcredential Programs. Beyond the curriculum and clinical experience, students are encouraged to be active in the campus community by participating in student clubs and organizations, demonstrating their knowledge at conferences with presentations,

posters, and other activities, and even developing innovative ideas to share with industry. In 2022, more students than ever before were recognized for their leadership and contribution to the profession. From being named the National Optometric Student Association (NOSA) Chapter of the Year to gaining recognition through the SUNY system for a commitment to student safety; to a record number of presentations at the American Academy of Optometry Annual Meeting to achieving second place in the Student Bowl and having two out of the three winners of the ABBOptical 2022 Optometry Student Challenge, students and residents at the College continuously demonstrate that they are ready to be future leaders in optometry. Each of these successes lead to opportunities for scholarships, travel grants, and other financial assistance which help students pursue their dreams while reducing stress over the cost of their education.

Forging the Future In 2023, SUNY Optometry will welcome several key faculty members, including Dr. Nicole Putnam, Dr. Arathy Kartha, and Dr. Michael Sullivan-Mee. Forging the Future

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