News

New England College of Optometry (NECO) celebrated the Class of 2025 on May 18, 2025 during its 131^st Commencement Exercises at Boston’s renowned Symphony Hall.

BOSTON, MA — The Board of Trustees at New England College of Optometry (NECO) is pleased to announce the distinguished honorees for its 131st Commencement Exercises, which will take place on May 18, 2025, at Boston’s renowned Symphony Hall.

Boston, MA—[March 31, 2025] New England College of Optometry (NECO) has announced plans to endow a scholarship to honor Maureen Hanley, OD, Class of 1981. This cherished faculty member dedicated more than four decades to shaping the future of optometry before her passing on March 8, 2025, at the age of 69.

The 2025 Vision Expo East featured many notable speakers and presentations. NECO was well represented, with President & CEO Dr. Howard Purcell being awarded Prevent Blindness’ Person of Vision.

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.

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.

NECO Shines at the Prestigious American Academy of Optometry Annual Meeting

New England College of Optometry (NECO) celebrated its 130th Commencement Ceremony on May 19, 2024 at Boston’s Symphony Hall. The Class of 2024 was honored with awards and accolades that recognized their academic excellence and expertise over the past four years. Watch the recorded livestream of the ceremony.