Emulating Optometric Legend “Uncle Frank”

For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. In high school, I shadowed my local optometrist to learn more about the profession. During that time, I discovered that optometry is about more than just glasses and contacts—Doctors of Optometry have a crucial role in healthcare by detecting underlying diseases, such as diabetes, through the eye. 

During my undergraduate years, I worked at a private practice and had the opportunity to observe firsthand how optometrists interact with their patients. That experience solidified my desire to pursue optometry as a career. Now, I’m a third-year student at The Ohio State University College of Optometry (OSU).

One of the most appealing aspects of OSU is its commitment to developing leaders in the optometric field. I’ve been fortunate to take full advantage of the leadership opportunities available and over the past two years, I’ve served as President Elect and then President of our local chapter of the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA). Most recently, I was Vice President of the student chapter of the Academy. These roles have given me invaluable experience in organized optometry and have taught me how my peers and I—as the next generation of optometrists—can work together as part of the larger optometric community to address challenges and shape the future of our profession. 

VSP has been a key part of this community throughout my time in optometry school, offering unwavering support to optometric students by sponsoring networking and educational events and providing financial support through travel grants, scholarships, and more. 

I’ve been fortunate to experience this support firsthand as the recipient of the 2025 Dr. Frank D. Fontana Memorial Scholarship. This award is given to a student who exemplifies the same professional qualities of empathy, clinical excellence, innovation, and community involvement that Dr. Fontana (“Uncle Frank”) was known for. Being recognized as someone with characteristics similar to this great optometrist, leader, and friend to many in the field is an honor. I hope to continue to embody the values of Dr. Fontana throughout the rest of my optometric career.  

As eye see it, I envision my success as striking a balance between staying at the forefront of technology to provide the best possible care for my patients and investing time in my community, family, and friends. As optometrists, we have the unique privilege of improving our patients' quality of life and making a lasting impact every single day—even through just a small conversation.