News

Imagine being able to see the world around you, but your brain can’t make sense of what your eyes are taking in. That’s the daily reality for individuals living with Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI), the leading cause of vision loss among kids in the United States (NEI.GOV). Despite its complex symptoms, CVI remains one of the least understood or recognized conditions in the medical and educational fields.

This article first appeared in Women in Optometry and its corresponding “WO Voices” podcast

Nearly 100 students gathered for a full day of professional development, expert insights, and career connections

On March 19, 2025, the New England College of Optometry (NECO) joined forces with the Massachusetts Society of Optometrists (MSO) to host Optometrists Day at the State House in Boston. The annual event allowed optometrists and optometry students to influence eye care policy in the Commonwealth directly.

For many optometry students, deciding what to do after graduation is a difficult choice with many options to consider. Each year, about 500 of optometry school graduates across the country choose to develop advanced clinical skills in a focused area of the profession by pursuing residency training. 

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in individuals over 50. It affects central vision and significantly impacts daily life. This progressive eye disease targets the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. AMD only affects a person’s central vision, so it won’t directly cause total blindness. The peripheral vision remains intact, leading to what is called a scotoma, or a blindspot, in the center of one’s field of vision.

Dr. Susan Cotter presented on emerging clinical approaches to amblyopia treatment during virtual event

It is with pride we recognize and pay tribute to these talented professionals and recognize them as truly outstanding individuals. Congratulations to our 2024 Distinguished Alumni: Dr. Karen G. Carrasquillo ’05, Dr. Charles F. Mullen ’69, and Dr. Eli Peli ’83.

According to the World Health Organization, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world. NECO Center for Eye Care knows a thing or two about finding and treating this condition. Our team of highly trained optometrists employ the latest diagnostic technologies and treatment methods to manage and effectively treat glaucoma. 

Braille was invited in the 1820s by Louis Braille. The system was created to support those with vision impairments read and write just as effectively as their sighted peers. Research proves braille literacy attributes to a better quality of life despite the system being over 200 years old. While technology and the rise of audio aids have increased, braille remains a key learning tool for millions of people around the world.