OCNY Trustee Prospectus

SEE OUR HISTORY…

1983 Recognizing the need for enhanced scientific research into the visual system, the Board of Trustees move to establish a research institute at SUNY College of Optometry. The following year, longtime benefactors Adolph and Ruth Schnurmacher made a naming gift of $1.5 million which still benefits vision scientists today. Launched and successfully conducted “Our Vision for Children Campaign,” a $2.5 million pediatric and family centered eye care focused initiative. Emboldened by a historic $1.28 million gift from former OCNY Board President, Barbara Saltzman, the 5,000 sq. ft. center was named in her honor in 2020. 2016

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1956 Founded and chartered in 1956 by a group of dedicated optometrists and benefactors as a nonprofit health and professional education resource for optometrists. Then known as the Optometric Center of New York (OCNY), this pioneering effort also resulted in the establishment of a vision-care clinic. 2000 Supported by the Foundation and its board, the College moves to 42 nd Street, across from Bryant Park. The historic 20-story building serves as the center for research, education, and patient care in the heart of Manhattan. Since arriving, the building has undergone significant renovation to ensure a leading-edge environment.

2020/2021 Challenged with COVID-19, OCNY worked to provide much needed glasses, contacts, and low vision devices to patients, secure funding for an increased need by underserved patients, and aid SUNY Optometry in bringing greater diversity and inclusion to the profession of optometry. all NYS optometrists were appropriately trained and qualified to provide the expanded scope of service through the Continuing Education Program which relies on donations to help keep the cost down. In the wake of the Therapeutics Bill which transformed optometry, the College ensured

Through the advocacy of many people, including OCNY leaders and Dr. Norman Haffner, SUNY College of Optometry is established, the only college of optometry in New York State. The OCNY is transformed into the affiliated foundation for the College. 2009 To provide critical support for growing educational, patient care, research, and community outreach needs, OCNY initiates “The Vision and the Promise” campaign which ultimately successfully raises more than $10 million supporting SUNY College of Optometry.

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