Inauguration Program

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.

8 SUNY COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY INAUGURATION