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AAO Announces 2025 Award Recipients

AAO American Academy of Optometry logo

Each year the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) recognizes distinguished individuals who have made countless important contributions to advancing the profession of optometry.

“The Academy’s prestigious awardees are nominated by Fellows who have been inspired by the exceptional strides these individuals have made in the fields of research, education, leadership, and service to our profession. Join us in Boston as we honor their outstanding achievements and cultivate a vision of excellence that will inspire the next generation of optometrists and vision scientists to lead with innovation, integrity, and dedication,” said Charlotte Joslin, OD, PhD, FAAO, Awards Committee Chair.

The Academy is pleased to announce the 2025 award recipients:

Donald O. Mutti, OD, PhD, FAAO
Charles F. Prentice Medal and Lecture Award

Gang Luo, PhD
Glenn A. Fry Award and Lecture (American Academy of Optometry Foundation Award)

Phillip Yuhas, OD, PhD, FAAO
Irvin M. and Beatrice Borish Award

Uchechukwu Levi Osuagwu, OD, MSc, PhD, FAAO
American Academy of Optometry – Essilor Award for Outstanding International Contributions to Optometry

Alex Bowers, PhD, MCOptom, FAAO
William Feinbloom Award

Jorge Cuadros, OD, PhD
Brien Holden Humanitarian Award

Jon Hayashida, OD, FAAO
Carel C. Koch Memorial Medal Award

Derik Holmberg
Julius F. Neumueller Award in Optics (American Academy of Optometry Foundation Award)

Isabelle Jalbert, OD, PhD, MPH, FAAO
Michael G. Harris Family Award for Excellence in Optometric Education (American Academy of Optometry Foundation Award)

Debarun Dutta, PhD, MCOptom, FAAO
AAOF Outstanding Emerging Leader Award

David Kirschen, OD, FAAO
Tony Adams Eminent Service Award

Chamberlain P, Bradley A, Arumugam B, Hammond D, McNally J, Logan N, Jones D, Ngo C, Peixoto-de-Matos S, Hunt C, Young G. Long-term effect of dual-focus contact lenses on myopia progression in children: a 6-year multicenter clinical trial. OVS 2022;99:204-12.
Garland Clay Award

Join us for the Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 10, at 8:00 am during Academy 2025 Boston in Room 253 ABC of the Menino Convention & Exhibition Center. One hour of CE credit can be accrued during this two-hour event.

Awards of the Section on Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies

Christine Sindt, OD, FAAO
Founders’ Award

Loretta Szczotka-Flynn, OD, PhD, FAAO
Max Schapero Memorial Lecture Award

Joan Exford, OD, FAAO
Exemplary Service

The Section on Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies Awards will be presented during the Section Awards Ceremony and Max Schapero Lecture on Wednesday, October 8, at 4:00 pm at the Menino Convention & Exhibition Center. Half an hour of CE credit can be achieved during this one-hour session.

Award of the Public Health and Environmental Vision Section Stephen J. Dain, PhD, FAAO

Henry B. Peters Award for Public Health and Environmental Vision
(American Academy of Optometry Foundation Award)

The Public Health and Environmental Vision Section will hold their Section Awards Ceremony and Henry B. Peters Lecture on Thursday, October 9, at 4:00 pm in the Carlton Room of the Westin Boston Seaport hotel. Attendees receive an hour of CE credit for attending this event.

Click HERE for the press release.

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Contact Lens Institute Extends The EASY Way Campaign with Actress Kate Flannery

contact lens institute

Contact Lens Institute (CLI) has extended its partnership with comedian and actress Kate Flannery for The EASY Way, which helps the eye care community discuss healthy contact lens wear-and-care routines with patients. The digital campaign will run on social media platforms into September, with Flannery’s video also available as a YouTube Short at youtube.com/shorts/mR2JCDll8BM.  

Flannery—a contact lens wearer herself—is globally recognized for her iconic role as Meredith on The Office and her moves on Dancing with the Stars. Her support of the CLI initiative has garnered widespread attention, prompting the promotion’s continuation.

The EASY Way (Eyes, Awareness, Safety and You) has been used by eye care practices across the U.S., Canada, and worldwide since 2021. It includes simplified tips, attention-grabbing infographics, and companion digital resources for use in practices, presented in a memorable and straightforward way. All components are available for free download within The EASY Way resource page on ContactLensInstitute.org.

Contact Lens Institute - Kate Flannery for The EASY Way

Contact Lens Institute advances the latest innovations in safe and effective contact lens and lens care products and services that provide unique benefits to patients while satisfying the evolving needs of eye care professionals. CLI undertakes activities that properly assess, enhance, promote and balance contact lens and lens care industry welfare and growth, including the safe use of products in the marketplace. Its members include Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision. For more information, visit contactlensinstitute.org.

Click HERE for the press release. 

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Superflex® Kids Blends Bold Detailing and Vibrant Design

Optik July-August 2025 Voila WestGroupe Superflex Kids SFK324

SFK-324 is an acetate combo frame with a modified round shape that brings a playful touch to everyday eyewear. The frame front features a flower-shaped rivet, while a floral pattern on the temple brings extra detail and charm.

The double-layered, overlapping rivet design adds depth and makes the frame visually unique. Navy Rose (pictured) and Teal feature gradient fronts for a smooth flow of colour, while Rose Shimmer stands out with its eye-catching shimmer effect.

Distributed by: www.westgroupe.com

About WestGroupe:

Established in 1961, WestGroupe is family operated with over 60 years of industry insight. Our mission has always been to provide unique and superior quality eyewear for the fashion-focused consumer. We are driven by our customer commitment to excellent service and exceptional product. WestGroupe is dedicated to defining future standards in the optical business by developing, creating, and supporting innovative products and services that allows our customers to succeed. WestGroupe offers a premium selection of globally recognized proprietary eyewear brands including KLiiK denmark, FYSH, EVATIK, Superflex® and OTP.

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Zyloware Acquires Kenmark Eyewear, Expanding Brand Portfolio and Legacy

100 years of Zyloware logo

Zyloware, the longest-running family-owned eyewear company in the United States, has announced the acquisition of Kenmark Eyewear. The deal was made by Christopher and James Shyer, Co-CEOs of Zyloware, together with investment partner CenterGate Capital.

The move marks Zyloware’s first expansion through acquisition and aligns with its strategy to broaden its brand portfolio and strengthen partnerships across the eyewear industry.

Founded more than 50 years ago in Kentucky, Kenmark has earned a strong reputation for innovation, craftsmanship, and design. Its portfolio includes globally recognized names such as Vera Wang, Lilly Pulitzer, Original Penguin, Kensie, Jhane Barnes, and Wolverine, along with independent collections Paradigm, Elliott Ives, and Valdo.

“This is both a natural fit and an exciting step forward,” said Jamie Shyer, Co-CEO and COO of Zyloware. “Kenmark’s heritage, strong reputation, and brand portfolio perfectly complement Zyloware’s existing offerings.”

Jason Wehlage, CEO of Kenmark, added: “By joining the Zyloware family, we strengthen our capacity to innovate, expand our reach, and provide collections that empower practices and elevate the eyewear experience for patients everywhere.”

As part of the transition, Christopher Shyer, Zyloware’s Co-CEO and President, will step down in November after decades of leadership. He will remain a co-owner and continue to support the family’s legacy at Zyloware.

“This is a very exciting time for Zyloware, for Kenmark, and for our future growth in the world of eyewear,” Shyer said. “We look forward to honoring Kenmark’s legacy while building a stronger, more dynamic future together.”

Source: Zyloware

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Revert Presents Polar Clip-on MOVE: Innovation, Style, and Versatility in a Single Pair of Glasses

Revert Move clip-on

Revert Srl, an Italian company founded in 1993, launches Polar Clip-on MOVE, the new project that combines technology, design, and functionality. With over 30 years of experience and a solid presence in more than 80 markets, Revert continues to stand out as an international benchmark for innovative eyewear.

“With Polar Clip-on Move, our goal was to address a daily need: to provide users with versatile eyewear, capable of integrating multiple functions and adapting to any scenario, while maintaining high technological and aesthetic standards.”Elvio Reolon, CEO of Revert

Revert Presents Polar Clip-on MOVE- image of case with glasses and two clip-ons

Clip-on MOVE: One Frame, Three Solutions

Polar Clip-on MOVE introduces a modular system consisting of an ultra-light optical frame and three interchangeable magnetic clips:

SUPER POLARIZED® CLIP

Designed for maximum visibility under sunlight, the SUPER POLARIZED® Clip features high-quality polarized lenses with UV400 protection, shielding your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.

  • Polarized lenses to reduce glare
  • Full UV protection (UV400)
  • Sharp vision and true-to-life colors
  • Quick and secure magnetic clip system

BLUE BLOCK® CLIP

The BLUE BLOCK® Clip filters harmful blue light emitted by digital devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, helping reduce eye strain and preserve long-term eye health.

  • Filters high-energy blue light (HEV)
  • Reduces digital eye strain and fatigue
  • Enhances contrast and comfort while working
  • Perfect for office use, smart working, and gaming

NIGHT DRIVE CLIP

The NIGHT DRIVE Clip enhances contrast and depth perception in low-light conditions, reducing glare from headlights and streetlights—ideal for safe night driving.

  • Improves visibility and contrast in low-light environments
  • Reduces glare from oncoming traffic
  • Enhances definition and depth on the road
  • Ideal for night driving or adverse weather conditions

The magnetic attachment system, integrated into the frame structure, allows for a quick and secure switch from one function to another, ensuring adaptability, comfort, and maximum versatility.


The eyewear confirms the DNA of the Polar brand, renowned for its focus on design, the use of high-quality materials, and its Super Polarized® lenses, which deliver more vivid colors, sharp vision, and full UV protection.

Revert Presents Polar Clip-on MOVE- image of glasses and three clip-on options

The true highlight of the project is the Blue Block Clip, which provides an immediate feeling of visual relief and, unlike glasses with a permanent filter, can be worn or removed depending on the moment’s needs.

The magnetic attachment system ensures fast, secure, and intuitive use, guaranteeing maximum comfort and adaptability. Polar Clip-on MOVE will be available in six different models, designed to meet every style and functionality requirement.

Click HERE for the press release.

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