SUNY College of Optometry Addresses Race in Optometry with Panel Discussion
SUNY College of Optometry's Office of Continuing Professional Education recently held the Annual Race in Optometry webinar, now in its third year. The series launched in 2020 to stimulate a national, ongoing conversation on race and equity within the profession of optometry. Titled, "Race in Optometry: Headwinds - Exploring Emerging Barriers to Success," the virtual session was held Wednesday, June 28, 2023.
Moderated by Dr. Joy Harewood, Chief Diversity Officer and Associate Clinical Professor at SUNY College of Optometry, the discussion included 10 panelists. This year’s lecture offered a variety of perspectives ranging from legal considerations, barriers to success, and increased efforts to maintain and continue to grow diversity. The topic was timely as it occurred just prior to the decision handed down by The Supreme Court of The United States regarding Affirmative Action in college and university admissions processes.
“SUNY College of Optometry is a leader in looking at ways to improve diversity across the field of optometry including leading conversations such as the Race in Optometry series,” observes SUNY Optometry President Dr. David A. Heath. “The College remains committed to DEIB and will work within the new guidelines to continue to advance the principles of diversity, belonging, and inclusion across the optometric workforce. The impact of this critical work extends beyond the walls of our campus and impacts the population health of the diverse patient community we serve.”
The most recent panel discussion can be viewed from the link below:
"Race in Optometry: Headwinds - Exploring Emerging Barriers to Success"
In case you missed previous Race in Optometry sessions, they are available below: