Melissa Trego

Bio

Dr. Melissa Trego serves as Vice President and Dean for Academic Affairs at the SUNY College of Optometry, where she leads academic programs, faculty development, and student success initiatives. She joined SUNY in the summer of 2025 after nearly a decade as Dean of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO), where she championed innovation in curriculum design, accreditation, and professional education.

A graduate of the PCO (OD) and Cardiff University (PhD), Dr. Trego combines a strong scientific foundation with a passion for developing future leaders in eye and vision care. Her experience spans national and international teaching, program development, and interprofessional education.

Dr. Trego currently serves as Co-Chair of the Chief Academic Officers Special Interest Group (SIG) for the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) and previously held multiple leadership roles within ASCO, including President, Treasurer, and Chair of Academic Affairs. She has been recognized nationally with the American Optometric Association’s President’s Award for Distinguished Service to Optometry and the Pennsylvania Optometric Association’s Merit Award for her contributions to education and professional advancement.

Beyond her professional role, Dr. Trego values connection, reflection, and balance, whether through evening walks with her dog Zara, conversations by the fire with friends, or friendly competition on the tennis court. Her leadership is grounded in authenticity and collaboration, with a steadfast commitment to making SUNY Optometry the best it can be for its students, faculty, and staff.