NECO at AAO’s Annual Academy

NECO Shines at the Prestigious American Academy of Optometry Annual Meeting

The American Academy of Optometry’s (AAO) Annual Meeting, also known as “Academy,” stands as one of the top professional gatherings for optometrists, researchers, and educators from across the United States. This year’s conference was held in Indianapolis and drew thousands of attendees. Representing a critical platform for advancing optometric knowledge, showcasing groundbreaking research, and fostering professional development.

Since its founding, the AAO has long been the gold standard for optometric excellence. The annual conference serves as an important event where innovative minds in optometry meet to share cutting-edge discoveries, discuss emerging technologies, and shape the future of eye care.

For the New England College of Optometry (NECO), the 2024 Annual Meeting was a wonderful platform for the school to show just how much of an impact it makes on the field through its faculty, students’, and residents’ contributions.

Faculty Leadership

NECO’s faculty made significant contributions to the Academy, showcasing the institution’s commitment to innovative research and educational advancement.

Dr. Jennifer Reilly emerged as a key thought leader, presenting at the Optometric Education Section Symposium on “Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Optometric and Allied Health Professions Education.” Her collaborative presentation with colleagues from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine delved into critical AI competencies for clinical and educational settings.

“Our discussion went beyond just technical capabilities,” Dr. Reilly explained. “We explored how AI can be integrated meaningfully into optometric education and practice, highlighting the research supported by an IBM Watson Health grant.” The presentation, featured in Optometric Management magazine, underscored NECO’s forward-thinking approach to technological innovation in healthcare education.

Collaborative Research Presentations

“The Refractive Error and Axial Length (REAL) Growth Charts Study, presenting preliminary data from Oakland, CA,” a key study on determinations of non-driving status in low vision patients done by NECO’s Children’s Vision Lab faculty Lilly Cheam, Kristen L. Kerber, and Fuensanta A. Vera-Diaz.

A thought-provoking case presentation titled, “Is Race Relevant to the Case?” led by Dr. Ruth Shoge and NECO’s Dr. Diane Russo, addressing important considerations in medical case analysis.

“Post-Stroke Optometric Rehabilitation: Where Functional Vision Meets Visual Function” by NECO Drs. Micaela Gobeille, Jem Martin, and Katherine Green.

The faculty’s diverse presentations demonstrated NECO’s comprehensive approach to optometric research, education, and clinical practice, spanning technological innovation, specialized clinical care, sports vision, and critical social considerations in healthcare.

NECO students arrive to faculty presentations early to get a good seat

Student Achievements and Engagement

NECO students approached the Academy Annual Meeting from an immersive learning and networking experience that sparked inspiration and career motivation. The event provided a comprehensive platform for students to engage with the larger optometry community, participate in competitions, and gain invaluable insights into their future profession.

Student Competition and Research Highlights

Mariam Abdel-Kader (MS/OD26) exemplified academic excellence by winning first place in the student vision science abstract competition. Her research was also selected to be presented in the poster hallway, highlighting her Master’s work on “Contrast Sensitivity Across the Visual Field in Children with Amblyopia.” The poster showcased the innovative work being conducted at Boston Children’s Hospital. “Presenting my research and competing at this level was an incredible opportunity to contribute to the field,” Abdel-Kader shared.

Mariam points to her name and research

The conference offered students numerous competitive opportunities, from abstract presentations to specialized student leadership programs, allowing them to showcase their emerging talents and research capabilities.

Networking and Professional Development

Rachel Harmon (OD25) emphasized the conference’s networking potential: “Every conversation was an opportunity to connect with mentors, potential residency programs, and future colleagues from around the world. The international scope of the conference opened my eyes to the broader impact we can have in optometry.” Harmon also represented OPTGLOBE at the VOSH International Annual Meeting to lead a conversation about student empowerment in leading the industry on a local and global scale.

Rachel with VSP’s Stephanie Ganiban at the VSP/AAOF Practice Excellence Award Reception

Michelle Shang (OD26), as a CooperVision Contact Lens Student Leader, experienced the conference from a unique perspective. The Residency and Graduate Program Fair became a pivotal moment for exploring future career paths. “Exploring these opportunities early is invaluable,” Shang noted. “I learned about specialized programs and connected with current residents in areas I’m passionate about, like anterior segment disease and cornea & contact lenses.”

Inspiration and Motivation

The Academy Annual Meeting was more than just a professional event—it was a transformative experience that energized students about their future in optometry. Students were particularly inspired by cutting-edge research presentations and opportunities to see the broader impact of optometric practice.

Michelle (far right) with classmates

“The conference reminded us that optometry is not just about examining eyes, but about understanding the intricate connections between vision and overall health,” Shang reflected. The event left students feeling motivated, connected, and excited about their potential to make meaningful contributions to healthcare.

Resident Excellence

NECO’s residents demonstrated clinical and research expertise at Academy. They presented innovative case studies and groundbreaking research that highlighted the depth of their professional training.

Dr. Kathleen Thai made a significant impact by presenting a rare case study on post-LASIK rainbow glare. She worked alongside Dr. Roberto Pineda at Mass Eye and Ear. The presentation was particularly noteworthy, winning “Best in Class” in the AAO CCLRT Diplomate Case Report Challenge.

Dr. Thai with her award before her presentation

“I am so happy to have had the opportunity to share the case and highlight the strengths of OD/MD relationships in patient care,” Thai shared.

Another remarkable presentation came from Dr. Pallavi Cherekar, who explored the clinical phenomenon with her case study on “Caruncle Fistula Leading to Chronic Epiphora.” Her work exemplified the residents’ commitment to understanding complex ocular conditions and advancing clinical knowledge.

Alumni Engagement

One of the conference’s highlights was NECO’s Alumni Reception, which drew an impressive crowd of over 300 attendees. This vibrant gathering provided a unique opportunity for NECO community members to reconnect, network, and share their professional journeys. Alumni came together to catch up, exchange stories, and learn about the latest developments at their alma mater.

Current students and faculty used the reception as a platform to showcase their recent achievements, research breakthroughs, and innovative approaches to optometric education and practice.

The event served as a powerful testament to NECO’s strong community spirit, demonstrating the ongoing connections and mutual support that extend far beyond graduation.

With 37 lectures and poster presentations, NECO demonstrated its significant role in advancing optometric education, research, and practice at the 2024 Academy Annual Meeting.