UAB School of Optometry

02/05/2026

Meet Chidera Okeleke! Chidera joined the Advanced International Optometry Degree Program (AIODP) this January, bringing her global perspective all the way from Australia to UABSO. She completed her Bachelor of Vision Science and Master of Optometry at Deakin University in Australia and joined AIODP to deepen her expertise in ocular disease and expand her practicing capabilities as an optometrist. The AIODP prepares internationally trained optometrists to advance their clinical skills, gain United States optometric training, and move toward licensure through a rigorous curriculum focused on clinical excellence and patient care. 📅 Applications close February 28. Take the next step in your optometry journey.

01/29/2026

UAB School of Optometry is excited to welcome Lynn Greenspan, OD, PhD, FAAO, Dipl. PH/EV, FNAP, as our newest professor! She brings extensive experience in low vision, rehabilitation, clinical care, teaching, and research.

Dr. Greenspan joins us from Salus University, where she specialized in low vision and neuro‑visual rehabilitation for patients with brain injuries. She’s passionate about evidence‑based care, innovative teaching, and supporting the next generation of optometrists.

01/21/2026

Gussie Branch, OD, is the 2025 Young Alumnus of the Year by the UAB School of Optometry Alumni Association. A 2016 graduate of UABSO, Dr. Branch is an optometrist at Eyes on Albertville in Alabama and serves as secretary-treasurer of the Alabama Optometric Association (ALOA). She is also on the UABSO Alumni Association Board. Branch has distinguished herself through leadership and service, making significant contributions to the profession of optometry.

01/15/2026

We are excited to share that Dr. Shannon is featured in Women In Optometry magazine! The article, “Morning Workouts and Myopia Care: Dr. Dana Shannon’s Approach to Wellness,” showcases her commitment to health and her innovative approach to patient care. Read the full story!

Chicago optometrist Dana Shannon, OD, FAAO, shares her approach to wellness that sustains her through a demanding optometry career.

01/13/2026

Resident Lauren King, OD, has had her research poster accepted for presentation at the 2026 Heart of America Eye Care Congress (HOAECC). She will share her work during the poster session on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, as part of the conference’s showcase of innovative optometric research and education. Congratulations!

01/08/2026

The 12th annual Gift of Sight Week brought vision care to 226 patients at Western Health Center, continuing a tradition of service to the community.

During the weeklong event, clinicians and student interns gave comprehensive eye exams to 156 patients and provided optical fittings for those who had previously been examined at UAB Eye Care and Community of Hope Clinics. Remote Area Medical partnered in the effort, making glasses on site when possible.

Community Eye Care, the community service arm of the UAB School of Optometry, organizes the annual event to improve access to vision care for underserved populations.

“This initiative is about more than exams and glasses. It is about giving people the ability to see clearly and live fully,” said Janene Sims, OD, PhD, director of Community Eye Care. “Our students and doctors appreciate the opportunity to provide care and make a difference.”

Gift of Sight Week partners with local businesses to ensure essential eye care reaches those who need it most.

01/07/2026

Classes are officially underway at the UAB School of Optometry, and students are already diving into lectures and labs. It’s great to see everyone getting into the rhythm of learning and preparing for another year of growth and discovery. Here’s to a successful semester filled with knowledge, clinical skills, and innovation!

12/25/2025

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season filled with moments that matter most. As the year comes to a close, there is excitement about all that lies ahead for the school in the coming year. Together, we will continue to advance its mission and keep the vision for the future in sharp focus. Enjoy the season, and here’s to an incredible year ahead!

12/18/2025

The Private Practice Club recently hosted alumnus Dr. Turner Altman, owner of Altman Eye Center, and his wife, Victoria, for an engaging discussion on the realities of running an optometric practice. Students gained insights into business strategies, patient care, and the challenges and rewards of private practice. The club regularly invites alumni speakers to share real-world perspectives, helping students prepare for successful careers in private practice.

12/17/2025

The 12th annual Gift of Sight Week brought vision care to 226 patients at Western Health Center, continuing a tradition of service to the community. During the weeklong event, clinicians and student interns gave comprehensive eye exams to 156 patients and provided optical fittings for those who had previously been examined at UAB Eye Care and Community of Hope Clinics. Remote Area Medical partnered in the effort, making glasses on site when possible.

12/09/2025

Beta Sigma Kappa hosted its annual Honor Reception recently, recognizing 16 members of the Class of 2028 for their academic excellence. The optometric honor society requires a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 for membership, celebrating students’ dedication and hard work. Congratulations to the newest members!

12/09/2025

Finals week sometimes calls for creative studying! Cristen Knapp helped friends prep for their exam by sketching a detailed retina because sometimes the best way to learn is to draw it out.