Ohio State Optometry I-DOC Program Receives INSIGHT Into Diversity Magazine’s 2021 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award

Ohio State Optometry I-DOC Program Receives INSIGHT Into Diversity Magazine’s 2021 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award

The Ohio State University College of Optometry’s Improving Diversity in Optometric Careers (I-DOC) program received the 2021 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the largest, and oldest, diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. The Inspiring Programs in STEM Award honors colleges and universities that encourage and assist students from underrepresented groups to enter the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The Ohio State University College of Optometry will be featured, along with 78 other recipients, in the September 2021 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.

Inspiring Programs in STEM Award winners were selected by INSIGHT Into Diversity based on efforts to inspire and encourage a new generation of young people to consider careers in STEM through mentoring, teaching, research, and successful programs and initiatives.

“Ohio State Optometry’s I-DOC program has produced tangible results,” said Ohio State Optometry Dean Karla Zadnik, OD, PhD. “The program has experienced unprecedented success, and over the past 15 years, more than 85 I-DOC alumni have matriculated into 16 of the 23 schools and colleges of optometry nationwide.”

“The mission of the four-day I-DOC program is to promote diversity in optometry by cultivating a diverse student body,” said Ohio State Optometry Chief Diversity Officer Vondolee Delgado-Nixon, PhD. “Each day, this immersive program has an assortment of experts, panels and one-on-one conversations. Topics include: the role of diversity in overcoming health disparities; educational opportunities and careers in optometry; resources and support networks available; how to be better learners in their current institutions; and navigating the optometry school application process.”

“We know that many STEM programs are not always recognized for their success, dedication, and mentorship for underrepresented students,” said Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We want to honor the schools and organizations that have created programs that inspire and encourage young people who may currently be in or are interested in a future career in STEM. We are proud to honor these programs as role models to other institutions of higher education and beyond.”

For more information about Ohio State Optometry’s I-DOC program, visit https://u.osu.edu/idoc/