Alumni Awards

Celebrating Excellence. Honoring Impact.

At SUNY College of Optometry, we’re proud to honor the alumni who continue to elevate the profession, serve their communities, and support future generations of optometrists. Each year, we recognize individuals across four distinct categories who exemplify the values and vision of our College.

Alumni of the Year Award
SUNY College of Optometry’s Alumni of the Year Award is given to a graduate in recognition of their exemplary service to the profession, the community, and/or the College.

Alumni Rising Star Award
The Alumni Rising Star Award recognizes a recent graduate who has shown exceptional promise and dedication to the field of optometry and made significant contributions to the profession early in their career.

Alumni Mentor of the Year Award
SUNY College of Optometry’s Alumni Mentor of the Year Award recognizes alumni who go above and beyond to guide and support students, residents, and young professionals.

Alumni Resident of the Year Award
This award celebrates SUNY Optometry residency-trained alumni who have demonstrated outstanding clinical leadership and innovation after completing their residency.

Nominate an Outstanding Alumni

• Nominations for the SUNY Optometry Alumni Awards are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. Nominations submitted after the spring review period will be considered for the following year’s awards.
• All submissions are reviewed annually by the Alumni Association Board each spring. Award recipients are selected at that time and honored during Alumni Reunion in the fall.
• We encourage you to submit nominations at any time to recognize alumni who are making a meaningful impact on the profession, their communities, and SUNY Optometry.