Inauguration Program

TRANSFORMING VISION

PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION of DAVID TROILO, PhD

FOURTH PRESIDENT OF SUNY COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2025

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About SUNY Optometry In the heart of New York City, the State University of New York (SUNY) College of Optometry stands as a global leader in optometric education, vision science research, and patient care. Founded over 50 years ago by a visionary group of optometrists and philanthropists, the College was built on a powerful mission focused on elevating the profession of optometry through educating future optometrists and vision scientists, advancing knowledge with cutting-edge research, and providing high-quality vision care to the community in an academic healthcare setting. Since welcoming its first class in 1971, SUNY College of Optometry has grown into one of the world’s premier institutions dedicated to eye and vision health. Home to the University Eye Center—one of the largest outpatient vision care facilities in the United States— and three research centers, the College delivers vital services to the community while serving as a real-world training ground for future optometric leaders. SUNY College of Optometry is not just an academic institution, it’s a dynamic hub where education, research, and service come together to improve lives. From pioneering breakthroughs in vision science to shaping compassionate, highly skilled professionals, the College continues to set the standard for what’s next in optometric care.

David Troilo, PhD Dr. David Troilo is the newly appointed President of the SUNY College of Optometry, having been selected by the State University of New York Board of Trustees as the fourth president to serve the state’s only college of optometry. Dr. Troilo joined SUNY College of Optometry as Professor, Vice President, and Dean for Academic Affairs in July 2008. As the chief academic officer, he oversaw the professional degree program in optometry and the graduate degree programs (PhD and MS) in vision science. His responsibilities also included faculty development, residency training programs, library services, and continuing professional education. Dr. Troilo has made advancing research at the College a priority, developing collaborative initiatives in basic, translational, and clinical eye and vision research. In collaboration with the University Eye Center, which sees an average of 60,000 patient encounters annually, he co-founded the College’s Clinical Vision Research Center (CVRC) in 2013. Since then, the CVRC has conducted more than 100 clinical studies and trials that enhance patient care. Dr. Troilo is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO). His principal research interest is the visual control of eye growth and the mechanisms of myopia development. His research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health and industry sponsors for over 30 years. A graduate of SUNY State College at Oswego, Dr. Troilo earned his PhD in Biology from the City University of New York at the City College of New York. He held post-doctoral research fellowships at the University Laboratories of Physiology at the University of Oxford, and the Department of Neurobiology and Behavior and the Department of Psychology at Cornell University.

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Photo by Ajay Suresh

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Program

Procession Led by Jennifer Hue, OD ’13, R’14 Chair, Faculty Executive Committee State University of New York (SUNY) Presidents Optometry Schools and Colleges SUNY College of Optometry Faculty President’s Council SUNY College of Optometry Foundation College Council Platform Party Chancellor John B. King, Jr., JD, EdD President David Troilo, PhD National Anthem Carlie Stalker, Class of 2026 Opening Remarks Dr. Hue Welcome Gretchen Stone, MAT Chair, College Council Greetings Alex Bores NYS Assemblymember, 73rd District Maria Fernandez, JD NYS Deputy Secretary for Education Office of Governor Hochul Saysha Blazier, OD R’12 President, New York State Optometric Association

Keshia S. Elder, OD, MS President Elect, Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry Richard Soden, OD ’79, R’80 President, SUNY College of Optometry Foundation Alexandra Benavente-Perez, MCOptom, MS, PhD Research Professor Betsy Torres Director of Continuing Professional Education Dina Gad, Class of 2027 President, Student Council Special Presidential Guest Erik Weissberg, OD Vice President and Dean for Academic Affairs, New England College of Optometry

Investiture Ceremony Chancellor John B. King, Jr. Merryl H. Tisch, EdD Chairman, SUNY Board of Trustees Inaugural Address “Transforming Vision” President Troilo Closing Remarks Dr. Hue Recessional

Reception will immediately follow ceremony.

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Speakers

Jennifer Hue, OD, MS, FAAO, is an Associate Clinical Professor at SUNY College of Optometry, where she completed her OD, MS in Vision Science, and Primary Eye Care Residency. She teaches interns in primary eye care and specialty contact lens clinics. Dr. Hue also teaches the Public Health course and serves as the International Programs Coordinator & Advanced Standing Director. Dr. Hue has demonstrated a deep commitment to international collaboration, successfully expanding SUNY’s global partnerships to include institutions in China, France, South Africa, Australia, Nigeria, and Spain, among other countries. Dr. Hue is driven by a vision of equitable access to eye care and education worldwide, which she continues to promote within her academic and professional roles.

Gretchen Stone, MAT has served as Chair of the College Council at SUNY College of Optometry since 2005, following her initial appointment to the Council in 2002. Her connection to the College dates back to the early 1970s, when her husband, then Assistant Counsel to Governor Nelson Rockefeller, helped review the legislation establishing the College and formed a lasting friendship with its founder, Dr. Alden N. Haffner. Gretchen earned her AB from Vassar College and an MAT from The Johns Hopkins University. Her professional experience includes managing family-owned commercial properties and a Factory-Authorized Repair Service for Jaguar and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. She also taught English as a Second Language and secondary education in New York City. An active community leader, Gretchen has served on numerous nonprofit boards including the Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center where she was President, Treasurer, and Chair of a major capital campaign. She is a longtime member of the Lotos Club and has dedicated decades to volunteer leadership and fundraising for educational and community organizations across New York and Long Island.

Alex Bores is a New York State Assemblymember representing the 73rd District, covering Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Midtown, and Murray Hill. As the first member of his party in state government with a degree in computer science, he has been a leading voice in crafting AI regulations to ensure responsible innovation and consumer protection. His Responsible AI Safety and Education (RAISE) Act, which awaits the Governor’s signature after passing the legislature in June, exemplifies his commitment to bringing transparency, accountability, and safety to emerging technologies. Before his election, he worked as a software engineer and data expert, leveraging technology to improve government efficiency. His legislative work spans AI governance, cybersecurity, consumer protection, and modernizing public services.

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Saysha Blazier, OD, FAAO, received her Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology in 2007 from Bradley University, her Doctor of Optometry in 2011 from Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO) and her residency from SUNY/Lighthouse International in 2012. Dr. Blazier served as Director of Low Vision Services and Clinical Instructor at University Hospital, associated with Rutgers University Medical School from 2012–2015. Dr. Blazier has been in private practice settings first in Jersey City, NJ and now Staten Island, NY since 2015. Dr. Blazier served as President for the AOSA from 2011–2012. Previous honors include young optometrist of the year for NJSOP 2015, NYSOA 2021 and AOA 2022, NJSOP Presidential Special Recognition award in 2018, and distinguished service award in 2019. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and has served on both the NJSOP and NYSOA Board of Trustees. She is now president for the New York State Optometric Association, as well as the Leadership Development Committee for the American Optometric Association. Dr. Blazier resides on Staten Island and in her free time loves spending time with her family, her dog and the outdoors.

Keshia S. Elder, OD, MS, MS, FAAO, FNAP, is the Dean and a Clinical Professor at the University of Missouri–St. Louis College of Optometry. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Science Teaching with a concentration in Mathematics from Clemson University, followed by a Doctor of Optometry, a Master of Science in Vision Science, and a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Development from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. Elder has presented nationally on topics including contact lenses, dry eye, health disparities, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as clinical procedures. She currently serves as President-Elect of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry Board of Directors, Editor of The Journal of Optometric Education , and a member of the Membership Committee of the American Academy of Optometry. In addition to her academic and professional leadership, Dr. Elder remains active in her community through the St. Louis Optometric Society, the Missouri Optometric Association, and Leadership St. Louis. A United States Navy Veteran, she served at the Naval Health Clinic Annapolis and the Pentagon/DiLorenzo TRICARE Health Clinic.

Richard M. Soden, OD, FAAO, brings a wealth of experience to the field of optometry and healthcare. As a Clinical Professor at SUNY College of Optometry, he currently serves as the Director of Health Care Development. With a career spanning over four decades, Dr. Soden’s journey began at SUNY College of Optometry, where he graduated in 1979. Following graduation, he completed a residency program at the Northport VA Medical Center on Long Island, where he later served as the Associate Chief of Optometry Service for 26 years. During this time, he also contributed his expertise to a large optometric practice in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY, focusing on pediatrics, children with special needs, and low vision rehabilitation for children and adults. Dr. Soden is recognized as a low-vision specialist and has been dedicated to assisting the Commission for the Blind throughout his optometric career. Dr. Soden’s influence extends beyond clinical practice. He serves as a third-party consultant for the New York State Optometric Association and has made extensive contributions to third party reimbursement and practice management. His involvement in optometry organizations includes being a member of the AOA’s Coding Committee and the AOA Third Party Center Executive Committee. With his wealth of experience and dedication to optometric practice, Dr. Soden continues to shape the landscape of eye care and vision services. Dr. Soden received The Distinguished Achievement Award from the AOA in 2025. He is currently serving as President for the SUNY College of Optometry Foundation. SUNY COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY INAUGURATION 9

Speakers

Alexandra Benavente-Perez, MCOptom, MS, PhD, FAAO, FARVO, is a Research Professor at the SUNY College of Optometry and Principal Investigator of her federally and industry-funded research lab, focused on identifying the mechanisms that lead to myopia and associated blinding consequences. She has served as Chair of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology Annual Meeting Program Committee (Anatomy section), and is an appointed member of the Scientific Committees of the American Academy of Optometry, and the International Myopia Conference. She has received the Josh Wallman Memorial Award, the Zeiss Young Scientist Award in Myopia Research at the International Myopia Conference, and the American Academy of Optometry Professional Career Development Award. She is a Silver Fellow of ARVO, as well as a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry. Dr. Benavente-Perez holds a degree in Optometry and Optics from the College of Science and Medicine in Valladolid, Spain, an MS in Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Science from the University of Manchester, UK, and a PhD in Vision Science from Aston University, Birmingham, UK. She has disseminated her work in experimental myopia and collaborative research through more than 30 peer-reviewed publications, two book chapters, and over 100 conference abstracts, advancing the scientific understanding and clinical management of myopia.

Betshally Torres (Betsy) is a distinguished professional in the field of optometry. She has dedicated nearly two decades to SUNY College of Optometry, where she serves as the Director of Continuing Professional Education. Throughout her tenure, she has played a pivotal role in advancing lifelong learning opportunities for optometrists and ensuring they remain at the forefront of clinical practice and professional standards. Most notably, Betsy has been instrumental in coordinating the statewide 40-hour Oral Pharmaceuticals program that supported the expansion of optometry’s scope of practice in New York. In 2023, Betsy received both the New York State Optometric Association Presidential Award and the College’s Inclusive Excellence Award, recognizing her exceptional leadership, commitment to education, exemplary service, and dedication to fostering an inclusive professional community.

Dina Gad is a member of SUNY Optometry’s Class of 2027 and the current Student Council President, where she acts as a liaison between students and the College leadership on topics related to the student body. She is also serving a two-year term as an AOSA Trustee where she plans and executes special events for SUNY Optometry students and represents the college at national meetings. Dina is a recipient of the NJAO Scholarship and this past academic year was recognized as a future leader in optometry by the Dr. Leslie Mintz Scholarship Foundation. A 2023 graduate of Seton Hall University, she earned her BS in Biology with an English Minor.

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Erik Weissberg, OD, FAAO, has served as the Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs of the New England College of Optometry (NECO) since 2019. He received his OD degree from NECO in 1997 and is a clinical expert in pediatrics and binocular vision with a focus on strabismus and amblyopia. Throughout his career, Dr. Weissberg has been an active member of the scientific research community, a grant reviewer for the NIH, an author of multiple manuscripts, a textbook author, a prolific lecturer, and has led his own research on myopia, strabismus and international eyecare delivery. Dr. Weissberg has been recognized with teaching awards and honors by students, faculty and the Massachusetts Association of Optometrists throughout his time at NECO, and has been a career-long mentor to many students and colleagues.

John B. King, Jr., JD, EdD is the 15th Chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY), the largest comprehensive system of public higher education in the United States. Prior to his appointment as Chancellor, King served as president of The Education Trust, a national civil rights nonprofit which seeks to identify and close opportunity and achievement gaps for students from preschool through college. Chancellor King also served in President Barack Obama’s cabinet as the 10th U.S. Secretary of Education. Before his appointment as Secretary of Education, Chancellor King fulfilled the duties of Deputy Secretary of Education, overseeing all policies and programs related to P-12 education, English learners, special education, and innovation. His service in Washington, DC, followed King’s tenure as New York State’s first African American and first Puerto Rican Education Commissioner. Chancellor King holds a BA in Government from Harvard University, a JD from Yale Law School, as well as both a Master of Arts in the Teaching of Social Studies and a Doctorate in Education from Teachers College at Columbia University.

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SUNY Board of Trustees

Merryl H. Tisch, EdD Chairman

Cesar Perales Vice Chairman

Joseph W. Belluck Courtney E. Burke Eric Corngold Marcos Crespo Robert J. Duffy James Haddon James Katz Eunice A. Lewin Stanley S. Litow

Dr. Merryl H. Tisch is one of the nation’s leading voices on education. She was appointed Chairman of the State University of New York in September 2019, after serving as Vice Chairman since 2018. From 2009 to 2016, Dr. Tisch served as Chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents, New York State’s governing body for education. Prior to serving as its Chancellor, Dr. Tisch was a dedicated member of the Board of Regents for 20 years and then held the position of Vice Chancellor from 2007 to 2009. While leading the Board of Regents, Dr. Tisch was responsible for setting the state’s education policy and overseeing both public and private education throughout New York. Her policies were informed by years of experience in the fields of education, community service, and philanthropy. She currently holds a number of philanthropic and civic positions, including serving on the board of the International Rescue Committee and as co-chairperson of the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, a leading social services agency. Dr. Tisch founded the Tisch Cancer Institute at Mt. Sinai Hospital in 2008. She earned a BA from Barnard College, an MA in Education from New York University, and received an EdD from Teacher’s College, Columbia University.

Luca O. Rallis Bruce Simon Edward Spiro Cary F. Staller Candice Vacin Camille Joseph Varlack

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Leadership

College Council Gretchen Stone, MAT Chair

David Dexter, OD

David Dozack, OD

Frank Pirozzolo, OD

James Ruhl, PhD

Dina Gad ’27*

Foundation Board of Trustees Richard Soden, OD ’79, R’80 President Thomas P. Farrell Vice President

Dennis P. Gehr Treasurer Marjorie Axelrad

Richard Feinbloom Immediate Past President

Dawn Rigney, MPH Executive Director

Mary Botelho, OD ’17, R’18 Jason J. Eckert

Mark S. Feder, OD ’83

Kevin Gioia, MD

Ronald M. Millman, OD

William J. Moran, MBA, CPA

Christopher J. Quinn, OD

Aravella Simotas

Jerry Warner

Harold Wilshinsky** Beryl Snyder, Esq.**

Claudia Rouhana**

Ryan Raynaud, ’26*

Alumni Association Board Mary Botelho, OD ’17, R’18 President

Samar Awad, OD ’92

Sherry Bass, OD ’80

Katie Brogan, OD ’18

MJ Bustamante, OD ’23, R’25 Marianna Butera, OD ’21, R’22

Anna Marie Fernandez, OD ’85 Mark Gendal, OD ’80

Sophia Johnson, OD ’23

Kaira Kwong, OD ’12, R’13 Vito Proscia, OD ’91

Diane Russo, OD ’10

* Student ** Emeritus

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Leadership

President’s Council David Troilo, PhD President

Guilherme Albieri, PhD

David A. Bowers, MP, MBA

Stewart Bloomfield, PhD

Carolina Gomez-Jones, MA

Joy Harewood, OD, MPH, R’12

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez, MS Dawn Rigney, MPH

Richard Soden, OD ’79, R’80

Melissa Trego, OD, PhD Guerda Fils, MS

Wendy Ravitz, JD

Inauguration Committee Jennifer Hue, OD ’13, R’14 Co-Chair

Wendy Ravitz, JD Co-Chair

Dapo Adurogbola

Michael Arias

Alexandra Benavente-Perez, MCOptom, PhD

Carolina Gomez-Jones, MA

Monica Guerrero

Michael McGovern, OD, FAAO, ’97, R’98

Page Hazen, ’26*

Betsy Torres

Travis Pfeifer, OD ’23, R’24

* Student

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SUNY College of Optometry Past Presidents

Edward R. Johnston, OD 1978-1987

Alden N. Haffner, OD 1971-1978, 1987-2005

David A. Heath, OD, EdD 2007-2024

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Greetings “ It is a privilege to welcome Dr. David Troilo as President of the SUNY College of Optometry. His leadership will strengthen the College’s mission to advance vision care, research, and education across New York State, while furthering its outstanding legacy of service to the community. I look forward to working with him. Congratulations to Dr. Troilo and the SUNY Optometry community for embarking on this new chapter.” — New York State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Chair, Senate Judiciary Committee

“ I am pleased to extend my congratulations to Dr. David Troilo on his inauguration as President of the SUNY College of Optometry. With his extensive experience in clinical research, optometric education, and higher education leadership, I am confident that the SUNY College of Optometry will continue to thrive and build upon its tradition of excellence in education, research, and patient care. I look forward to seeing the institution’s continued growth and impact under Dr. Troilo’s leadership.” — New York State Senator Liz Krueger, Chair, Senate Finance Committee

“ I am delighted to congratulate Dr. David Troilo on his inauguration as the fourth president of SUNY College of Optometry. His leadership, vision, and commitment to academic excellence will undoubtedly guide this fine institution forward, continuing its legacy of excellence in optometric education and research, built upon a strong foundational history. I look forward to a continued strong partnership and to seeing the positive impact he will make in the years ahead.” — New York State Assemblywoman Alicia L. Hyndman, Chair, Assembly Higher Education Committee

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“ I extend my warmest congratulations to Dr. David Troilo on his inauguration as President of the SUNY College of Optometry. His distinguished career and dedication to advancing education and research will undoubtedly strengthen the College’s impact on the field of optometry. I wish him great success as he leads this exceptional institution into an even brighter future, and am also proud that as a resident of New Rochelle he is also my constituent!” — New York State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, Chair, Assembly Health Committee

“ Congratulations to David Troilo on becoming the fourth president of SUNY Optometry. Under his leadership, the College will continue driving advancements in medical research and innovation that protect the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers. David’s vision and commitment to science will ensure the College remains at the forefront of discovery and care.” — New York State Assemblymember Tony Simone

“ Congratulations to President Troilo and SUNY College of Optometry on this exciting new era! May your vision lead the school toward an even brighter future for the next generation.” — Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine

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Greetings On behalf of the College Council, it is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that we extend our heartfelt congratulations on your appointment as the fourth President of SUNY College of Optometry and on your Inauguration. Your selection to lead our institution is a testament to your outstanding leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence. We are confident that your experience and dedication will guide the College into a future of continued growth, innovation, and student success. With warmest regards and best wishes for a successful tenure, SUNY College of Optometry College Council On behalf of the SUNY College of Optometry Foundation Board of Trustees, it is our distinct pleasure to extend our warmest congratulations during your Inauguration. Today marks a truly special moment—one that celebrates not only your remarkable accomplishments but also the bright future ahead for the College under your leadership. Your passion and vision for optometric education, innovation, and community aligns with the values we hold dear at the Foundation, and we are genuinely excited to collaborate with you in transforming vision for better patient outcomes. Here’s to new beginnings, bold ideas, and shared success. Congratulations again on this momentous occasion! SUNY College of Optometry Foundation Congratulations on your appointment as President and on your Inauguration. As proud SUNY College of Optometry graduates, we’re especially grateful for the way you’ve already made alumni a meaningful part of your vision for the future. Thank you for recognizing the power of our shared history and the role we can play in shaping what comes next. We’re excited to support you, partner with you, and be a part of your bold vision. Our warmest congratulations and best wishes, Alumni Association

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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

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