2023 Annual report

An Evolving Vision 2023 Annual Report

Contents President’s Message.......................... 3 An Evolving Vision...............................4 Future of Optometry...........................7 Education............................................. 11

Patient Care........................................15 Research.............................................. 19 Leadership. ........................................ 28 Financials........................................... 29 2023 AT A GLANCE

4,220 Hours of Lecture, Lab, and Clinic Contact

>250,000 Total Annual Patient Encounters 27% Increase in Annual Research Funding 74% Increase in URM Students Over 5 Years $271,852 in Charitable Care Provided

50% of Licensed NYS ODs are SUNY College of Optometry Grads 100+ Total Affiliated Sites

9% Increase in Student Financial Support

An Evolving Vision: Building Upon a Legacy of Accomplishment

Reflecting on this annual report is bittersweet as it marks the last time I will share the amazing accomplishments of this vibrant institution and highlight the promise of the future. The SUNY College of Optometry has been my professional home for nearly 17 years and each year, I am proud of the accomplishments of our leadership team, our faculty, our staff, our students and

laboratories, patient care facilities, library, and Student Center has positioned us to thrive for years to come. Our campus supports our mission and reflects our sense of purpose and community. When I arrived, the College had only occupied the building for a few years and was just beginning to develop a vision as to how to create a first-class facility that advances our educational, research and patient care mission. We have come far indeed and the progress

our residents. They are the backbone of the College and truly have made my journey a story of success.

will continue into the foreseeable future with the renovation of our

My introduction usually focuses on key highlights throughout the year, but with this issue, I am taking a longer view. In the upcoming pages you will see how far the College has come as well as some of our milestone

Primary Care Eye Center, 16th Floor Research Laboratories, and the development of a new Center for Teaching and Learning.

From the establishment of the College in 1971, under the leadership of Dr. Alden N. Haffner through today, we as a community have always been steadfast in the vision that the College be a leader in optometric education and the profession. We are committed to the advancement of knowledge through research, and in our role as an integral partner within the health care delivery system. I have had the unparalleled privilege to lead that vision forward during my time here. It is because of you, our supporters, alongside an outstanding team of faculty and staff, that the College has been able to embrace this obligation and grow the institution to what it is today. I am confident that the College will continue to evolve as a dynamic leader that educates and empowers our students, expands access to eye care, and engages in transformative research that touches thousands of lives around the world. I thank each and every one of you for your dedicated and unwavering support throughout my tenure and I trust your support of the College will continue well into the future.

achievements in 2023. During my tenure, the College of Optometry has accomplished a great deal as a community and I am

proud to say we are one of the leading optometry programs (if not “the leading program”) in the nation. Among our many accomplishments are key areas of

growth: we increased our enrollment by 30% without a loss of quality in admissions; expanded our matriculation of underrepresented minority students from under 5% to approximately 14%; nurtured our residency program from 27 positions to 43; and amplified our research activity from $2.45M to well over $4.08M per year. We provided our students with innovative, value-added opportunities and multiplied SUNY program partnerships with Stony Brook, Downstate, and Upstate, as well as the NYC Health + Hospitals system. And, through our focus on partnership and service to the community, our faculty, students and residents now support over 250,000 patient visits each year in NYC, NYS and beyond. The campus has seen significant renovation with the support of the State University Construction Fund (SUCF), providing us with a state-of-the-art teaching, research, and patient care facility. A strong investment in our facilities including our classrooms, research

David A. Heath, OD, EdM President

2023 ANNUAL REPORT 3

AN EVOLVING VISION

STUDENT FOCUSED SPACES Becoming a First-Class Teaching, Learning, and Patient Care Facility With over $100 million invested since the arrival of Dr. Heath in 2007, today’s campus reflects the College’s core values.

Completed Fall 2014: Completed in time for the entering class of 2014, this ground-floor classroom space offers state-of-the-art technology and flexibility.

Completed Summer 2013: Extensive updates to the 2nd and 3rd floors resulted in a new Student Center, fitness center, meeting space and flexible teaching spaces.

TEACHING SPACES

PEDIATRIC EYE CLINIC Completed April 2020: This clinic’s design and patient focus set the example for all future clinic renovations.

RESEARCH LAB Completed 2013 & 2019: Investment in research lab space is continuous as we advance this core piece of our mission.

LOBBY Completed Summer 2016: Renovation of the 42nd Street lobby entrance including new patient check in area, art gallery and security desk.

PRE-CLINICAL PRACTICE AREAS Completed Summer 2019: Using new space in the lower lobby area, we expanded and upgraded labs, practice rooms, and the simulation lab.

Total Renovations 2007-2023: $102,292,152

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Then & Now: Focus on Growth & Sustainability The hallmark of success for any leader is creating a vision for growth and sustainability that positions their organization for success well into the future.

Key Initiatives Started During Dr. Heath’s Tenure: 1 Published Annual College wide goals beginning in 2008 through today, establishing a culture of assessment and planning.

2 Increased resources through two historic

Then

Now

fundraising campaigns, The Vision and The Promise ($10M) and Our Vision for Children ($2.5M).

2007 Total ODs Enrolled : 292 Students

2023 Total ODs Enrolled: 379 students

3 Grew international programs including a partnership with Wenzhou Medical University in China that is still in place today. 4 Championed value-added programs such as CSTEP, the Career Development Center, the Diversity & Inclusion Master Plan, and Microcredentials. Vision Research Center, connecting research and clinical opportunities. 6 Grew partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals Corporation, the largest urban public health system in the U.S. 7 Secured resources for Center for Teaching and Learning to enhance student and faculty support. 8 Initiated the development of an extension site for the Doctor of Optometry program on the Upstate Medical University campus to address upstate workforce shortages. 5 Opened the Clinical

2007 Degrees Awarded: 71 total (64 OD)

2023 Degrees Awarded: 102 total (95 OD)

2007 Historically Underrepresented Students: 3

2023 Historically Underrepresented Students: 15

2007 Residency Programs: 13 Residency Positions: 27

2023 Residency Programs: 19 Residency Positions: 43

2007 Research Grant Activity: $2.45 million (31 grants)

2023 Research Grant Activity: $4.08 million (45 grants)

2007 Full-Time Faculty: 49

2023 Full-Time Faculty: 77

2007 Scholarship Support: $132,800

2023 Scholarship Support: $398,900

Overall historic enrollment Year 1972 2007 2013

2018

2023

Total Enrollment (all programs)

24

300

343

400

392

25

75

100

100

100

# of OD seats

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AN EVOLVING VISION

Seeing a Need in Upstate New York

The SUNY College of Optometry is undertaking a major initiative with the development of an OD Extension Program in Syracuse in collaboration with SUNY Upstate Medical University to address regional eye care workforce shortages.

There is a significant shortage of eye care providers in Upstate NY. To meet the eye care needs of a population totaling more than 9 million people, an average of only 18 new licensees are entering practice each year in Upstate NY, while 25% of currently practicing ODs in the region indicate they will retire in the next five years. Once fully established, the anticipated enrollment will be approximately 30-32 students per year for a total 4-year enrollment of 120-128. When the extension site is fully enrolled, the maximum three-year enrollment at the

extension site will be 96, with an additional 32 fourth year students rotating through already established externship sites, including the College’s University Eye Center in Manhattan. Students enrolled at the extension site and in NYC will have the same curriculum, learning outcomes and assessment processes. Prior to the opening of the program and initiating recruitment efforts, completion of a multi-organizational accreditation approval process is required. Securing the requisite approvals is underway.

ANTICIPATED PLANNING TIMELINE

ACCREDITATION PROCESS APRIL 2023-SPRING 2024

BEGIN STUDENT RECRUITMENT SUMMER 2024

FIRST ENTERING CLASS FALL 2025

FULL 4-YEAR PROGRAM FALL 2028

FIRST GRADUATING COHORT SPRING 2029

Clinical Training at the Upstate Center for Vision Care and Specialty Private Practices 16 Goal for # of Students in Inaugural Class

128 Total # of Students Across 4 Class Years

Located in the Heart of the 4th Largest City in NY

Vibrant College Town

~ 4,000 Sq. Ft. of Dedicated Space in Campus Activities Building

“ SUNY is at the forefront of healthcare innovation. By bringing together researchers and doctors from our College of Optometry and Upstate Medical, we can more effectively connect eye care with hundreds of related health conditions. This exciting ground for doctors will broaden opportunities for students considering a career in healthcare.” — SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr.

FUTURE OF OPTOMETRY

FUTURE OF OPTOMETRY

(Ketchum) in 2012 and completed a SUNY Optometry ocular disease residency at Fromer Eye Centers in 2013. Her passion in the field is to provide quality eyecare to all humans in the New York City region and beyond through teaching and mentoring, as well as making efforts through collaborative planning in changing the healthcare industry and its role in the eyecare arena. We asked Dr. Su, an emerging leader in the field of optometry, a few questions about how she saw her role in the ever-changing field of healthcare and her role as a rising leader of her generation. Q: What does it mean to be a Millennial leader in Optometry? A: I think it’s an exciting time to be a Millennial leader now. While I’m still figuring out this process, I’ve certainly noticed that my leadership and management style is very different from previous generations. I’ve been very lucky to have great mentorship in guiding me through this process and have people patient enough to let me screw up and learn from my mistakes so that I can be a better leader. Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you have seen and/or experienced as a Millennial in the world of optometry? A: The rapidly changing healthcare landscape. We went to school to become doctors, but what we are realizing in the workforce is that the world around us is constraining us from the autonomy, creativity, innovation and service that we envisioned it would be prior to starting graduate school. While every generation says that of their

workforce, I think we need to make the choice to be the change agents. We, as doctors, need to develop our business, management, public policy and service brain so that we can play a bigger role in our day-to day clinical days. Q: Describe your Optometry journey thus far. A: Everyone’s journey is a unique journey. When I look back at where I started 11 years ago, I certainly would not expect to be where I am today. If your journey surprises you in a good way, then be very grateful for it. Q: Why do you think mentoring and/or connecting to current students and residents is important? A: If we don’t, then we’ve done a disservice for our future. The reason why I’m the way I am today is because of mentors and sponsors in my life who have guided me and elevated me. My role is to only share my experiences with those who I’ve come into contact with so that they can learn from my mistakes, build on what I’ve worked on and bring new light and life in their choices during their careers. Q: What advice would you give to up-and-coming Gen Z Leaders? A: Studies have shown that Gen Z’ers and Millennials actually have a lot of commonalities when it comes to leadership traits; the most important one is that we value relational constructs, meaning and purpose. Lean on your Millennial counterparts to continue growth because they will value very similar principles as you!

Dr. Marina Su, R’13 President of NYSOA

Dr. Marina Su, OD, FAAO, is the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Optometry at Fromer Eye Centers, a multi-disciplinary OD/MD private practice in New York City. She is also the Ocular Disease Co Residency Supervisor at Fromer Eye Centers and an Adjunct Associate Clinical Professor at SUNY College of Optometry. She currently serves as the President of the New York State Optometric Association. Dr. Su graduated from Southern California College of Optometry A Q&A with Dr. Marina Su, R’13 Rise of the Millennial Leader

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SUNY Optometry Recognized with Prestigious HEED Award

SUNY Optometry was honored with the 2023 Health Professionals Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher

education. This annual and national honor recognizes U.S. health colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion. This year marked the first time SUNY Optometry received this distinguished award.

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SUNY Optometry Doctor Honored with Distinguished Professorship Dr. Steven Schwartz was awarded with a Distinguished Professorship, SUNY’s highest academic rank. He joins Elaine Wells and Dr. Stewart Bloomfield along with eleven other of the College’s faculty and staff who have been named to the SUNY Distinguished Academy.

Newsweek Names Top 200 Eye Doctors for 2023 Twenty-three SUNY Optometry alumni, faculty, and staff made this national ranked listing. Among those honored from SUNY Optometry and also placing this year in the Top Twenty: Dr. Viola Kanevsky, ’93, Dr. Richard Madonna, ’85, and Dr. Jerome Sherman.

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Visionary in Eye Care Resident Recognition Award Dr. Julie Song, ’22, R ’23 was honored as the inaugural recipient of the

Visionary in Eye Care Resident Recognition Award for the category of Best in Optometry during the EyeCon 2023 conference and awards ceremony. The program pays tribute to the rising stars in the field of ophthalmology, optometry and retina care, highlighting their exceptional contributions to patient care, research and clinical practice.

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2023 ANNUAL REPORT 9

FUTURE OF OPTOMETRY

CSTEP Program Recognized for STEM Education SUNY Optometry’s Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) received the 2023 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. The Inspiring Programs in STEM Award honors colleges and universities that inspire and encourage a new generation of young people to consider careers in STEM through mentoring, teaching, research, and successful programs and initiatives. Nearly 500 students have passed through this long standing SUNY Optometry program in over a decade of growth and education.

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SOAPP Wins Preston Cup for the First Time: Student Optometric Association for Private Practice (SOAPP) was awarded, for the first time, the 2023 Preston Cup at the annual SOLutioN Conference. The Preston Cup is awarded each year to the most deserving Student Optometric Leadership Network (SOLN) private practice or practice management club.

SUNY Chancellor King Visits College of Optometry on 64-Campus Tour New SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. visited SUNY Optometry in April 2023 with SUNY Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Merryl Tisch. He met with student leaders and faculty, toured the campus and hosted several open forum discussions during his four-hour visit.

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Two SUNY Alumna Receive 2023 Theia Award for Excellence Each year, Women in Optometry asks readers and friends to submit the names of women who have been extraordinarily influential in the industry. This year, more than 150 nominations were submitted. At the 8th Annual Awards, Dr. Ray Corbin-Simon, ’94, R ’95 was recognized for her work in mentoring. Dr. Shira Kresch, ’15, R ’16 was recognized with the Young OD Award.

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EDUCATION

EDUCATION

Joining as the Chair of Clinical Education this summer, Dr. Sullivan-Mee shares what makes SUNY Optometry stand out. Meet the Chair, Dr. Michael Sullivan-Mee

disease. Considering the aging of the population with its associated increases in vision-threatening conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma, it is ever more important that SUNY continues to broadly train primary care clinicians to competently manage these common vision threats. SUNY also uniquely offers focused instruction tracks in the form of our Micro credential programs. Within these distinctive programs, students receive concentrated instruction in Vision Rehabilitation, Pediatrics, Low Vision, Glaucoma, and Cornea and Contact Lenses. The expertise gained from these programs promotes an elevated level of competence while providing advanced training in managing extraordinary and complex patient care presentations within each of these subspecialty areas. Q: What makes the way we teach or deliver our curriculum stand out? A: SUNY has uniquely invested in advanced technology for teaching both in the basic and clinical science tracks. When the learning from these tools is combined with dedicated faculty and the exceptional clinical experience that is fundamental to the SUNY curriculum, the result is competent eye care clinicians with the curiosity and scientific foundation that promotes continued professional growth and ongoing success.

Q: How is SUNY Optometry’s curriculum evolving to support student learning for the future of the optometric field? A: Continued evolution of our curriculum and teaching methods is critical to long-term success, including increasingly leveraging technology to our advantage. SUNY currently employs state-of the-art VR systems including gross anatomy platforms and hands-on ocular diagnostic simulators. These advanced technological tools, which are continually refined and improved, provide great advantages for students striving to enhance their foundational knowledge and clinical skills. Q: With the continued focus on interdisciplinary care and innovation, how are we preparing students to apply their education post-graduation? A: Interdisciplinary care has long been a staple of our students’ core education. Not only do students regularly engage in interdisciplinary

interactions throughout the clinics, they gain even broader healthcare exposure during their 4th year externship experiences. Being prepared to succeed and take advantage of opportunities for innovation within the evolving healthcare landscape requires a robust foundational knowledge base and broad clinical experience. This is a SUNY strength, as its core education prepares graduates to be well-positioned for emerging opportunities that become available into the future. Q: How are sub-specializations enhancing the training for the ODs of tomorrow? A: The momentum of sub specialization across healthcare is unrelenting, and eyecare is not immune to the trend. SUNY Optometry has long distinguished its expertise in numerous subspecialty areas including contact lens care, low vision, vision therapy, glaucoma, neuro-ocular disease and retinal

70 Partnerships

To read more about our evolving educational programs:

8

16 Community Health Sites

International Affiliations

Externship Sites

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Residency Stats

11 SUNY Optometry Residency

20 Residency Programs in Total 17 of the 41 Members of

Affiliated Sites Across 4 States

Class of ’24 Student takes 3rd Place in 2023 Student Bowl Sakshi Vasiu, ’24, took 3rd place in the national competition in Washington, DC. Student representatives from 24 schools and colleges of optometry battled through rounds of competition for a chance to win prizes and bragging rights by answering optometry-related questions that were created by an esteemed panel of optometric educators.

43 Residency Positions

the 2023-2024 Residency Class are SUNY Grads

New Residency Site in Rochester

Flaum Eye Institute is the newest affiliated residency site. We are proud to welcome Residency Supervisors Dr. Jessica DaSilva and Dr. Brooke Donaher.

Scan to learn more: Insights: Advancing Your Career, provided students and residents a unique opportunity to learn from working professionals and network with potential Career Symposium 2023 SUNY Optometry Career Development Center hosted the 11th annual Career Symposium April 2023. The program, titled Sights and

employers. More than 30 employers attended the day long event with 232 attendees registered.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT 13

EDUCATION

2023 Alumna Creates New Scholarship The Paul Canney Scholarship was donated by alumna Dr. Avalena Linsky, ’23, and named for her great-grandfather who helped inspire Dr. Linsky’s journey. This is anticipated to be an annual scholarship in the years to come. The inaugural award was given to Emma Goodwin, ’25, this past fall.

First Year Students Win 2023 Innovator Award

Rena Shilian and Tzvi Friedman (Brooklyn, NY) were selected as recipients of the 8th Annual SUNY Optometry Student Innovator Award. The $5,000 award, sponsored by The Rick Bay Foundation, is designed to recognize and reward an original concept developed by a SUNY College

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of Optometry student or students that is impactful, viable and feasible in today’s optometric practice.

Student Showcase

433 Enrolled Students & Residents

98 OCNY Scholarship Winners

436 Active Student Club Hours

350 Class of 2027 Average OAT Score (the highest in the nation)

26 Active Student Clubs

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PATIENT CARE

PATIENT CARE

A Q&A with Dr. Michael McGovern, ’97, R ’98 View into Patient Care

for most of our patients, will help us continue our commitment to offering the most technologically advanced patient care and outstanding student education. The beautiful new clinic will consist of 24 exam rooms, a large diagnostic testing room, interprofessional-practice space — all furnished with state-of the-art equipment and technology. In addition, there will be an optical shop offering a large selection of eyeglass frame and lens styles. Q: How have your past experiences and being an alum shaped how you lead the UEC as CMO? A: I have been in practice for well over 25 years and my career path has afforded me the opportunity to work in various settings and with very diverse groups of patients. I started patient care right in the heart of New York City while a student at SUNY Optometry, when the College was on 24th Street. My residency and then subsequent practice took me out to the suburbs of Long Island. Over those 20 years, I cared for patients in my private group practice and at the Northport Veterans Administration Medical Center — where I served veterans and taught students and residents. In addition, I provided services at half a dozen assisted living facilities and nursing homes. I came full circle when I joined the administration of the University Eye Center at SUNY Optometry. I was right back in the heart of NYC where my journey had begun. This broad and diverse and wonderful career path has definitely shaped how I view and approach my role as Chief Medical Officer. And it all comes down to what I have learned from the countless patients and colleagues that I have had the privilege of working with over the past few decades.

Q: What makes the University Eye Center (UEC) a destination for our patients? A: As a premier academic health center, the providers at the University Eye Center are among the top specialists in their field. Not only do they teach the next generation of young doctors in the clinic and classroom, they lecture nationally and internationally, conduct research, publish articles in scientific journals, author chapters in textbooks, and are often sought after for their expert opinion in their area of specialization. Q: What makes the UEC stand out among other eye care centers training future ODs? A: What makes us stand out is our unparalleled location. As the UEC is in the heart of NYC and is easily accessible to New York City, Long Island and New Jersey residents, we are a leading destination for a broad and diverse faculty, staff, student and patient base. And as with so many things associated with our great city, this diversity leads to an environment that offers a sense of belonging, better patient care and education, and improved clinical outcomes. Q: How is the UEC a leader in the field of patient care and optometric clinical education? A: As one of SUNY’s 64 campuses, the UEC is housed within the College of Optometry and attracts many of the brightest and most dedicated students in the country. As a proud member of New York City’s renowned healthcare system, the UEC is committed to always

having the newest and most advanced technology, practicing evidenced-based care consistent with the latest and best research and standards of practice, and offering a wide array of clinical services and procedures, as well as a large selection of high-quality eyewear and contact lenses. Q: How will the Primary Eye Care Clinic renovation advance the vision for patient care and optometric education? A: Thousands of New Yorkers trust their eyesight and eye health to the outstanding providers at the University Eye Center. This includes patients with very complex and serious eye conditions, many of whom are referred to us for care from outside providers. The renovation of our Primary Eye Care Clinic, which is the entryway to the UEC

Dr. Michael McGovern, ’97, R ’98 Chief Medical Officer

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Groundbreaking on 7th Floor Kicks Off Renovations of Primary Eye Care Clinic The official groundbreaking ceremony held in October 2023 welcomes over a year of renovations for the patient care hub and optical center.

Eyes on the Rise in Myopia Management Over 1,000 children were seen in the Myopia Management Clinic last year. Seeing the need to increase appointment availability, Pediatric Chief Dr. Shelby Leach advocated for additional clinical time with five sessions per week, an additional three exam lanes, and integrating clinical training for 3rd year students as the prevalence of myopia continues to grow among children. Additionally, the College conducts over $750,000 in funded myopia research annually.

Total Annual Patient Encounters (>60K UEC encounters included) 250,000+

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PATIENT CARE

OptiLight Completes Dry Eye Clinic OptiLight is the first and only FDA-approved IPL therapy for the treatment of dry eye and is used to treat dry eye, ocular rosacea, meibomian gland dysfunction, demodex and chalazia. Dr. Harriette

SUNY Researchers Lead Studies in New Visual Snow Syndrome Often seen as a chronic condition, visual snow is a neurological condition resulting in a visual disturbance that

can entirely obscure vision. SUNY Optometry and the UEC secured a William G. & Helen C. Hoffman Foundation grant in November 2023 to evaluate the effects of tints (different colored spectacle lenses) to alleviate the condition’s symptoms.

Canellos, Dr. Kamila Mikos, ’20, R’21, and Dr. Matthew Bovenzi, ’14, R’15 lead the Dry Eye Clinic that started 12 years ago and has evolved and grown not only as a resource for patients but as a state-of-the-art training facility for students. The equipment is a new acquisition for the UEC and the first patient appointments have been scheduled for early 2024.

Educational Webinar Series Launched A new quarterly education series debuted in the spring and has enjoyed four installments in 2023, curated by Dr. Shelby Leach. Topics include Pediatric Myopia (nearsightedness) and Pediatric Eye Allergies.

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Vision Screenings Impact Lives More than 100 people received free vision screenings at the UEC or through community initiatives.

$270,000+ Total Charitable Care

Nearly 1,000 Hours of Clinical Experience for Each OD Student Across Four Years

16,056 Referral Visits

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Fall 2023 Ribbon Cutting for Clinical Vision Research Center

RESEARCH

RESEARCH

A Q&A with Dr. Kristen Fry, ’98 Leading Clinical Research through 10 Years of Growth

Q: What about the new space is significant and important to the future success of the CVRC? A: The new CVRC provides the administrative space for the study support team which has grown over the years. More importantly, it provides additional examination room lanes (now we have 6 lanes!) to be able to accommodate more trials by industry partners along with the College’s investigator-initiated studies. The greater number of exam lanes also allows our graduate student research projects access to the CVRC and shared use of equipment for their clinical research projects, which previously had been difficult to accommodate with space restraints. Q: To date, and in your opinion, what study do you think was most important or noteworthy in the past ten years? A: The CHAMP study evaluating childhood atropine for myopia progression is noteworthy. We were the highest enrollers (73 enrolled) in this multi-center study that ran from 2017 through 2023. The new drug application was submitted to the FDA this past summer and its approval is anticipated early this year. It will be an important new, first-in-class pharmaceutical treatment option for children with myopia.

In 2023, The Clinical Vision Research Center (CVRC) celebrated the start of its 100th case study and hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the 14th floor following nearly 2 years of eagerly anticipated renovations. This is just one part of the overall research initiative that happens at SUNY Optometry. Q: How many people are currently on the CVRC research team? A: There are 9 people on our research team. In the past 10 years, we have worked with 22 different principal investigators, the majority of which are/were clinical faculty. Q: How many patients are currently actively engaged in trials and studies? A: Currently, we have 100 participants enrolled in 11 active studies. Over the past 10 years an estimated 4,000 subjects have participated in our various studies. Q: What is the 100th CVRC Study? A: Our 100th study was by Dr. Arathy Kartha. She is currently working on a NIH funded study to evaluate subjects with ultra-low vision. These subjects have visual acuity less than 20/1600. The information learned through the study may help in developing new vision rehabilitation programs for those with ultra-low

Dr. Kristen Fry, ’98 CVRC Director

vision which may significantly impact their quality of life. Q: What was the first study? A: The first clinical study in the CVRC began in 2013 and was the OPUS2, multicenter clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of a 5.0% concentration of Lifitegrast Ophthalmic Solution compared to placebo in subjects with dry eye currently using artificial tears. Dr. Katherine Richdale, the initial Director of the CVRC, was the study’s principal investigator.

30% Increase in Active Clinical Research Grants

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Class of ’20 alumna takes top honor at annual ARVO Meeting Dr. Carol Lin, ’20, has won the 2023 Member in Training Outstanding Poster Competition (Anatomy/Pathology scientific section) at the annual ARVO meeting. Her award-winning topic was “The Effect of Myopia on Retinal String Vessel and Vascular Branchpoint Density is Exacerbated by Age.”

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Third SUNY Optometry Alum Wins National Residency Award Dr. Stephen Dellostritto, ’21, R’23, was honored

Grant Activity 2022–23 $4.08 million

Total Grants in Fiscal Year 2023 45

with the 2023 AAO Hopkins Comprehensive

Eye Care Residency award, which signifies a dedication to excellence in patient care, ongoing contributions to vision science research, and passion for educating future optometrists.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT 21

RESEARCH

PhD Students Take Top Honors with National Awards Seoyoung Kang, MMSc, was awarded the Minnie and Roseanna Turner Award for Impaired Vision Research in June for her project on “Retinal Regeneration and Glia Reprogramming.” Daniel Larbi, OD, was awarded the Trainee Professional Development Award (TPDA) from the Society for Neuroscience

$2.04 Million NIH Grant Awarded

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Dr. Alexandra Benavente Pérez was awarded an NIH grant through the National Eye Institute to study the link between myopia and glaucoma.

(SfN) for his work in “Understanding Müller Glia Function in Retinal Disease.”

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New Home for the Clinical Vision Research Center on the 14th Floor The September 26th ribbon cutting marked a celebratory year for the CVRC, which also launched its 100th study led by Dr. Arathy Kartha and its tenth anniversary. In the past year, the CVRC secured ~$1.8M to support research and clinical studies.

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IN THE NEWS

Getting The Word Out Across The Media Landscape There are many more ways to learn about the students, faculty and staff of SUNY College of Optometry. Get

the latest news and information about the College by visiting sunyopt.edu/news. The SUNY Optometry Community has a voice that resounds in the world of digital media, from the New York Times to NBC News. Follow @sunyopt and @universityeyecenter on social media for a closer look at various events and members of the SUNY Optometry community, as well as additional stories, images and videos. For more information about clinical services, visit universityeyecenter.org

2023 ANNUAL REPORT 23

FOUNDATION

SUNY College of Optometry Foundation The Optometric Center of New York (OCNY) officially changed its name. This better reflects the delivery of its mission and ability to secure critical resources to support SUNY College of Optometry Scan to learn more:

Two New Board Members Join the Board of Trustees The Foundation named former New York State Assembly member Aravella Simotas and Kevin Gioia, MD to its Board of Trustees for a three-year term.

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in being a leader in vision health through education, advancing research and providing care to patients.

Scholarship Support Continues to Grow for Students with Three New Scholarships for 2023

The Foundation’s scholarship program has grown to 27 named scholarships supporting over 50 students annually. The generosity of donors allows the foundation to provide nearly $400,000 in total scholarship and grant support to deserving SUNY Optometry students on their journey to become eye doctors.

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SUNY Optometry Foundation Names New Trustee Emeritus Mr. Harold “Hal” Wilshinsky joined the Foundation board in 2006 and in March 2023 was named Trustee Emeritus to the Board of Trustees. With this honor he joins a special cadre of individuals who have been honored with the highest rank for a Foundation Board Member.

24 SUNY OPTOMETRY ANNUAL REPORT

On behalf of the SUNY College of Optometry Foundation and its Board of Trustees, we would like to offer our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the many individuals, foundations, and corporations who support our efforts throughout the year. Many have been long-time supporters who we count on year after year. In 2023, we saw an increase in the number of donations from faculty and staff, alumni, and parents. Most notably, grateful patients in the University Eye Center recognized the great work of the students, residents, and eye doctors with notes of appreciation and donations which more than doubled the number of gifts received from this group in the previous year. It is this collective support that enables us to support nearly 2,000 patient visits for families with limited resources, approximately 25% of our students with scholarships, new technology in our clinic, labs, and classrooms, and so much more. Thank you for entrusting us to be good stewards of your donations and for seeing the value of vision through your support. Making the Most of Invested and Donated Dollars 2023 Functional Expenses 23% 2023 Functional Expenses 6%

Dawn Rigney Executive Director

Dr. Richard Soden Board President

Student Support Campus Support Clinical Support Research

6%

23%

2023 Functional Expenses 2023 Functional Expenses

19%

Student Support Campus Support Clinical Support Research

16%

6%

International Programs Management & General Fundraising

23%

19%

Student Support Campus Support Clinical Support Research

16%

International Programs Management & General Fundraising

3%

%

16%

International Programs Management & General Fundraising

5%

28%

Total Expenses: $1,809,298

28%

Total Expenses: $1,809,298

28%

Total Expenses: $1,809,298

As of December 31, the Foundation’s net assets exceeded $13 million. The 2023 Audit conducted by Sax, LLP shows how funds were used to support students, patients, research and the College community.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT 25

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

President’s Award For Years Of Service

50 Years of Service Dr. Mordachai Soroka

30 Years of Service Dr. Harriette Canellos Dr. Christine Dumestre Ms. Veronique Germaine

Mr. Boris Levin Dr. Teresa Lowe Ms. Monica Swaby

25 Years of Service Ms. Sheila Crawford Ms. Susan Lee-Shareef Mr. Dwayne Moore Dr. Qasim Zaidi 20 Years of Service Ms. Sarah Didier Mr. Robert Wilczewski Dr. Alla Zlotina

This fall, Dr. David A. Heath announced his retirement at the end of the academic year after nearly two decades at SUNY College of Optometry. He will round out his tenure leading the planned SUNY Optometry Extension Program through 2024.

Excellence in Professional Service: Darcy Cavanagh Excellence in Faculty Service: Dr. Diane Adamczyk Chancellor Award Winners Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Miduturu Srinivas Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities: Dr. Robert McPeek Classified Service: Mohammed G. Nasiru

Dr. Mordachai Soroka Celebrates 50 Years at SUNY Optometry For over five decades, Dr. Soroka has not just been a professor of clinical education, but has also participated in several extensive studies on the optometric work force. This includes work for the 2011 Annual Report, and a more recent analysis of the subject in the May 2021 Review of Optometry. Congratulations Dr. Soroka!

26 SUNY OPTOMETRY ANNUAL REPORT

Dr. Heath Celebrates with the College Community Over the Years

2023 ANNUAL REPORT 27

LEADERSHIP

President’s Council David A. Heath, OD, EdM President Guilherme Albieri, PhD VP for Student Affairs & Engagement David Bowers, MP, MBA VP of Administration & Finance Guerda Fils, MS Asst. VP for Human Resources Joy Harewood, OD, R’12 Chief Diversity Officer Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez, MS, FACHE VP for Clinical Administration/Executive Director, University Eye Center Wendy Ravitz, Esq Chief Campus Counsel Dawn Rigney, MPH VP for Institutional Advancement/ Executive Director, SUNY Optometry Foundation Richard Soden, OD, ’79 Director of Health Care Development David Troilo, PhD Dean/VP of Academic Affairs

President’s Council

Optometric Center of New York Board of Trustees Richard Soden, OD, ’79 President Thomas P. Farrell Vice President Dennis P. Gehr Treasurer Dawn Rigney, MPH Executive Director and Secretary Marge Axelrad

Jerry Warner Harold Wilshinsky* Claudia Rouhana* Beryl Snyder, Esq.* Alumni Association Board Vito Proscia, OD , ’91 President Mary Botelho, OD, ’17 President Elect Kaira Kwong, OD, ’12 Vice President Samar Awad, OD, ’92 Sherry Bass, OD, ’80 Katie Brogan, OD, ’18 MJ Bustamante, ’23 Marianna Butera, OD, ’21 Anna Marie Fernandez, OD, ’85

Carolina Gomez-Jones Assistant to the President College Council Gretchen Stone Chair

Mary Botelho, OD, ’17 Mark S. Feder, OD, ’83 Richard Feinbloom Kevin Gioia, MD

David Dexter, OD David Dozack, OD Charles Gold, OD

David A. Heath, OD, EdM Ronald M. Millman, OD William J. Moran, MBA, CPA Vito Proscia, OD, ’91 Christopher J. Quinn, OD Elianna Sharvit, ’24*** Aravella Simotas Ryan Raynaud, ’26***

Michele Lagana, OD Frank Pirozzolo, OD James Ruhl, PhD Paula Ulmer Schutz, OD, ’78 Jessie Zhu, ’26 ***

Mark Gendal, OD, ’80 Sophia Johnson, ’23 Diane Russo, OD, ’10 * Trustee Emeritus *** Student Representative

28 SUNY OPTOMETRY ANNUAL REPORT

FINANCIALS

Financials

2022–2023 Receipts

Core

IFR Research Foundation

Total

Tuition, Fees, Deposits

$11,990,053 $10,181,387

$653,769

- $12,643,822 - $10,181,387 - $10,543,637

State Support

-

Clinics Other

$1,550,004 $8,993,633

$963,105

1,976,574

$4,076,075 $7,015,755 $4,076,075 $40,384,600

$24,684,549 $11,623,976

From (to) Fund Balance Reserves

($780,657) $39,603,943

Total Receipts Expenditures

Core

IFR Research Foundation

Total

Payroll

$20,389,811 $8,684,992 $3,189,114 $3,552,223 $23,578,925 $12,237,214

$1,991,128 $31,065,931 $1,796,676 $8,538,012 $3,787,804 $39,603,943

Other than Payroll Total Expenditures

2021–2022 Receipts

Core

IFR Research Foundation

Total

Tuition, Fees, Deposits

$16,662,502 $9,839,458 $1,550,004 $1,070,220 $29,122,184

$413,613

- $17,076,115 - $9,839,458 - $9,709,038

State Support

-

Clinics Other

$8,159,034 ($437,430) $8,135,217

$3,896,278 $4,529,068 $3,896,278 $41,153,679

From (to) Fund Balance Reserves

($3,061,020) $38,092,659

Total Receipts Expenditures

Core

IFR Research Foundation

Total

Payroll

$22,218,739 $4,031,384 $26,250,123

$5,746,771 $2,479,971 $8,226,742

$1,908,296 $29,873,806 $1,707,498 $8,218,853 $3,615,794 $38,092,659

Other than Payroll Total Expenditures

Source: For State support, including campus-generated revenue, receipts and disbursements are taken from the SUNY Business Intelligence data system. For the Research Foundation, receipts and disbursements are taken from the Expenditure Profile Report, including both sponsored programs and corporate accounts.

Designed by Onward Publishing, Inc. 631-757-8300

2023 ANNUAL REPORT 29

Our Mission

The State University of New York College of Optometry advances visual health and patient care through leadership in education, research, and service.

Leadership We develop leaders and scholars in education, research, and patient care. Professionalism We conduct ourselves with integrity and civility, and embrace evidence-based practice and lifelong learning. Inquiry We support discovery and understanding through basic, translational, and clinical research. Innovation We foster an environment that promotes creativity in optometric education, research, and patient care. Diversity We respect the dignity of all individuals and value their unique cultural traditions and perspectives. Service We enhance public health by making the highest quality patient care accessible to a broad range of communities. Our Institutional Values

2018–2025 Strategic Plan Goals: Care • Lead • Advance

Student-Centered Experience

Enhance the student experience through programs that promote student and alumni success

Academic Excellence Deliver a dynamic curriculum that engages students and advances contemporary optometry Grow the graduate and research programs to increase the institutional impact on the advancement of knowledge and produce leaders in vision research

Service to Our Patients and Community

Deliver unparalleled care to our University Eye Center patients Provide service to the greater community

Student Success

Community and People Cultivate institutional culture that encourages a sense of community, inclusion, institutional pride, collective purpose, and shared responsibility Promote the growth and development of all members of the College community

Effective Foundational Support Attract the brightest and most motivated students with demonstrated leadership potential Provide the financial foundation, administrative support, and environment to achieve the College’s mission

Scan to read the full plan:

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