SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.—The American Optometric Society (AOS) announced that it awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Taya Grilli, a senior at the Illinois College of Optometry for her essay, titled “The Biggest Challenge to Optometry Today,” which names the profession’s most critical challenge as a lack of awareness of the role served by optometrists.

“Taya Grilli, through her superb essay, has demonstrated her commitment to the profession of optometry,” said Dr. Pamela Miller, president of AOS.

The award was given out at the organization’s third annual meeting and CE seminar, here Feb. 24-26. According to AOS, Grilli is the second recipient of the “Harvey” Award, named after optometrist and humanitarian Dr. Harvey Yamamoto and open to graduating students from schools or colleges of optometry in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. “Applicants submit an essay written on a pre-selected topic. The winner is presented with $1,000 and a one-year membership in the American Optometric Society, and is recognized at the Annual AOS Meeting,” the organization said.