PEOPLE Opening Your Eyes! The First Look at the Industry’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Survey By Staff Monday, May 24, 2021 12:54 AM RELATED CONTENT Rising to the Challenge National Optometric Association Expands Its Voice on Behalf of Minority Optometrists Open Your Eyes Scholarships Support Students’ Path to Opticianry Schools Black EyeCare Perspective Expands Its Connections and Development on Many Fronts CEO Action Pledge for Diversity and Inclusion Signed by National Vision’s CEO Optometric Colleges Deepen their Diversity Commitments Range of DEI Courses and Discussions Are Slated for Vision Expo Orlando in June The Vision Council’s Report Starts the Diversity and Inclusion Conversation The now on-demand session was presented in collaboration with the American Academy of Optometry, The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, and the National Optometric Association, taking a close look at The Vision Council’s 2020 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report. An engaging and insightful discussion session was moderated by Dr. Derrick Artis, management consultant at Artis Consulting. Panelists include: Dr. Sherrol Reynolds, president of the NOA; Dr. Ruth Shoge, chair of the Diversity and Cultural Competency Committee at ASCO; Dr. Cynthia Heard, chair of the AAO DEI committee; and Dr. Diana Canto-Sims, co-founder at Buena Vista Optical and designer at La Vida Eyewear. Dr. Ruth Shoge, chair of the Diversity and Cultural Competency Committee at ASCO, said, “The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) and its member institutions embrace diversity and the continued cultural competence of our students and in our profession. More importantly, we look forward to continuing to work with other organizations in creating an equitable and inclusive profession in an intentional and purposeful way.” Dr. Sherrol Reynolds, president of the National Optometric Association, said, “The National Optometric Association (NOA), an organization dedicated to advancing the visual health of minority populations, is thrilled to partner with The Vision Council, the American Academy of Optometry (AAO), and the American Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) in presenting this informative panel discussion addressing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in our industry.” Dr. Cynthia Heard, chair of the AAO DEI committee, said, “Diversity, equity and inclusion is finally coming to the forefront for difficult and transparent conversations. Examining one’s own identities replaces the silence and fear with tools that allow courageous conversations to occur. This session can be viewed on the Eye2Eye page here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL95Z2fIK4LpWbs406B5UdXi59Kefy2xqD.