Opportunities in Optometry Grants deliver fresh perspectives and enthusiasm

Since launching the AOA/AOSA Opportunities in Optometry Grant program in 2021, more than 90 grants, totaling over $130,000, have been awarded to students preparing to enter optometry school. In 2024, 17 Opportunities in Optometry Grants were awarded, helping traditionally underrepresented minority groups within the profession apply for optometry school. 

So, why does the next generation think it's important to increase the number of underrepresented minorities in the field of optometry? Read what they have to say.   

Hearing from this year’s recipients  

While the world is wrapped up in statistics and statements, the next generation is ready to rise above … 

“Increasing the representation of underrepresented minorities in optometry is not just about achieving numerical diversity; it is about enriching the field with varied perspectives and experiences that enhance patient care and community health.” 

-Sabaa Belkadi 

… and focus on what really matters. 

“A doctor who connects with their patients is more likely to see them as people to care for than a five-minute block on the schedule. A patient who can connect with their doctor is more likely to return for care and follow through.” 

-Cecilia Trujillo-Lopez 

“Being an optometrist implies that we will serve a multitude of different cultural backgrounds, given our nation's diverse population. It is inevitable that we will serve those of a similar background. Sharing similar cultural beliefs with patients helps build rapport between the optometrist and patient. This will create comfort and allow the patient to open up to us about their issues.” 

-Dacia Alvarado-Montoya 

Most applicants are already reaching out in their communities, so that friends and family feel comfortable seeking help, while also sharing their unique knowledge with their peers and mentors to elevate care.  

“It encourages individuals who may not have traditionally seen themselves in the field to pursue careers in it. As an advocate for diversity in my community, one of my initiatives to increase awareness has been to ensure I thoroughly educate the Spanish-speaking patients I work with as an optician/optometric technician at several different offices, as well as training my coworkers to communicate with them.” 

-Leilani Rodriguez 

They also are connecting with their peers in the classroom and embracing the industry—including through initiatives produced by Black EyeCare Perspective.  

“Through my efforts, such as a poster presentation at Norfolk State University/HBCU to raise awareness about the field of optometry among over 600 students, I have aimed to inspire individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to consider optometry as a viable career option. Additionally, my participation in events like the Black Eyecare Perspective Pre-Optometry Club’s Signing Day signifies my commitment to supporting and empowering minority students interested in pursuing optometry.  

Ultimately, fostering diversity in optometry contributes to a health care landscape that values inclusivity and respects the unique perspectives of all individuals. Through continuous outreach and advocacy, we can work toward building a health care system that better serves everyone, regardless of their ethnic background.” 

-Hawi Breathwaite 

Overwhelmingly, the next generation is ready to shine a spotlight on optometry and bring in more patients than ever—aspiring to reach goals that will monumentally advance the nation’s overall health and well-being.  

“As a public health major, I have learned about how much comfort and relatability factor into someone’s willingness to seek services. For a child or adult to be able to see an optometrist who looks like them, and who perhaps came from the same town or circumstances, it increases a willingness to go to the eye doctor because there is a sense of familiarity and comfort there.” 

-Emily Souza 

The AOA Foundation’s focus on the future 

In 2021, the AOA and the AOSA launched the Opportunities in Optometry Grant Program, supported by The AOA Foundation, to help promote diversity and equity within the optometric profession for generations to come. The grants are made possible through the generous support of the AOA, the AOSA and members of the profession.  

Stemming from the work of the AOA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Advisory Committee and the AOSA Diversity Project Team, Opportunities in Optometry Grants represent a concerted effort to not only build diversity, equity and professional leadership in optometry but also expand access to primary eye care across the nation.  

The 2024 grant recipients will start school between fall 2024 and 2025, respectively. Congratulations to this year’s recipients! 

• Kenaz Knowles 
• Andrea Rendel 
• Melody Yang 
• Hawi Breathwaite 
• Leilani Rodriguez 
• Tram Hunyh 
• Asha Hurreh 
• Cecilia Trujillo-Lopez 
• Juveria Ahmed 
• Jana Deaibes 
• Sabaa Belkadi 
• Tireign Lindsay 
• Emily Souza 
• Dacia Alvarado-Montoya 
• Naseem Alfadhl 
• Ilham Ariouat 
• Javier Frausto 

Help support Opportunities in Optometry  

The AOA DEI Advisory Committee and the AOSA Diversity Project Team have committed to paving a path toward a broader, more diverse and equitable profession, and Opportunities in Optometry grants are an integral part of that sustained pledge.  

The profession can help support these efforts to encourage underrepresented minorities to join the family of optometry and expand access to primary eye care across the nation—here’s how: 

• Donate to support The AOA Foundation. Your contribution—which can be made directly toward the Opportunities in Optometry Grant Program—can help offset the cost of study materials, application fees or transportation for an optometry school interview for a grant recipient. 
• Help spread awareness of the Opportunities in Optometry Grant Program. Know someone who might benefit from an Opportunities in Optometry grant? Encourage applicants to visit The AOA Foundation website for eligibility criteria and additional application information. The 2025 Opportunities in Optometry Grant application is currently open until July 1. The application can be found here.