Inauguration Program

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.

10 SUNY COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY INAUGURATION