THE OPTOMETRIC CENTER OF NEW YORK BECOMES
SUNY COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY FOUNDATION
New York, NY: The Optometric Center of New York (OCNY) officially changed its name to better reflect the delivery of its mission to secure critical resources to support SUNY College of Optometry in being a leader in vision health through education, advancing research and providing care to patients. The change was approved by the Board of Trustees last fall and received approval from the Board of Regents for the State of New York and the State Education Department this spring.
Founded in 1956, the Optometric Center of New York, serves as the affiliated, tax-exempt foundation for SUNY College of Optometry and its related patient care clinic, the University Eye Center. SUNY College of Optometry Foundation stands as an example of what partnership among visionary community, education, and businesses leaders can accomplish. Since its inception the foundation has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to supporting vision care for underserved populations; educating the next generation of optometrists including providing merit and need-based scholarships to students; and advancing research into the complex human visual system.
“While we will carry forward the wonderful legacy of the Optometric Center of New York, this name change better aligns and strengthens the work carried out under the Foundation’s mission,” noted Dawn Rigney, MPH, Executive Director. “The roll out of our rebranding comes at a great time as we position the Foundation to enhance the support of the College’s key programs including the development of an extension program in Syracuse, increased student scholarships and program support, and addressing an expanding need for charitable patient care.”
The new logo will incorporate SUNY College of Optometry’s colors in an eye motif along with the Foundation’s new name. This will be rolled out over the next several weeks.
The SUNY College of Optometry Foundation also recently added two new members its board of trustees, former New York State Assemblymember Aravella Simotas and Dr. Kevin Gioia, MD. The board, which meets quarterly, currently consists of 16 members in addition to Ms. Rigney and up to three student representatives.
Visit www.ocny.org for additional information. To make a secure donation in support of any of the key initiatives, visit www.sunyopt.edu/give.
Media Contact: Rob Rosiello, communications@sunyopt.edu
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, August 3, 2023
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About the SUNY College of Optometry Foundation (Optometric Center of New York)
Founded in 1956, the Optometric Center of New York, now recognized as SUNY College of Optometry Foundation, currently serves as the college related, tax-exempt foundation for SUNY College of Optometry and its affiliated patient care clinic, the University Eye Center. SUNY College of Optometry Foundation stands as an example of what partnership among visionary community leaders, education, and businesses can accomplish. Since its inception, the SUNY College of Optometry Foundation has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to supporting vision care for underserved populations; educating the next generation of optometrists including providing merit and need-based scholarships to students; and advancing research into the complex human visual system.