Paris, France and Winter Park, FL (November 12, 2024) – EssilorLuxottica will contribute $300,000 to the American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF). The contribution, announced at the AAOF’s Celebration Luncheon on Saturday, November 9^th, will help support optometrists pursuing their PhD in a vision science field.

Recognizing the current demand and need to teach the next generation of optometrists and researchers, the AAOF’s OD/PhD Program encourages ODs to pursue a PhD in a vision science field such as Physiological Optics, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health or Neuroscience.

The AAOF’s OD/PhD Program is a crucial initiative aimed at addressing the growing need for PhD-level faculty in the field of optometry. By encouraging ODs to pursue advanced degrees in vision science fields, the program seeks to ensure that the next generation of optometrists and researchers are well-prepared to advance the field and ultimately elevate the standard of patient care.

“To ensure the future of optometry, it’s important that we make critical investments in education. We’re proud to support the AAO Foundation in their efforts to ensure the next generation of ODs has the most expansive, richest education surrounding vision care,” said Fabrizio Uguzzoni, President of Professional Solutions, EssilorLuxottica Americas.

Olga Prenat, Global Head of Medical and Professional Affairs at EssilorLuxottica, emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “This program is important, and we hope that it will encourage ODs to study for a PhD; thus, allowing to create impact on the future development of optometry by fostering innovation and driving forward research. Academia and researchers have been significantly contributing to eye and vision care not only in the US, but also internationally.”

“As President of the American Academy of Optometry Foundation, I am pleased to announce the launch of five new OD/PhD fellowships,” said AAOF President, Dr. Rachel A. “Stacey” Coulter. “The fellowships are designed to support the next generation of leaders in optometry and vision science, and to provide them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities to drive impactful change in their fields. This investment is essential to support a vibrant future for optometric practice and for our communities and organizations.”

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