Essilor Optical Technology Grants
The American Optometric Foundation (AOF) and Essilor are delighted to announce their partnership on the Essilor Optical Technology Grants program, now in its eighth year. Three $20,000 grants are awarded annually to optometry schools for projects intended to elevate the standards and visibility of ophthalmic dispensing to students and patients in the training environment. In the past, grants have been competitively awarded for projects as diverse as to facilitating education and training for clinical outreach in underserved areas, to updating education in teaching and dispensing clinics and providing laboratory equipment that enriches the students training experience. This is part of a commitment by the Foundation and Essilor to develop the next generation of eyecare professionals.
Application Procedures
Applications must be submitted by email to Email AOF Awards. Only one application may be submitted by each school or college of optometry and must be endorsed by the Dean or President of the school/college. The application must include full contact information for the institution and responsible individual.
In 1000 words or less the applicant should state how the grant will be used to further their educational program. The deadline for applications is September 17, 2010.
A 500 word progress report must be submitted by awardees in June of the subsequent year in order for the institution to be eligible for future Essilor Optical Technology Grants. No institution will receive a grant two years in a row.
Review Procedures
Applications will be judged on the school’s commitment to the growth of premium optical technology, as well as how the funding will enable the school to elevate the standards and visibility of ophthalmic dispensing for students and patients. A five-member review panel, including one representative form Essilor, will be convened by the American Optometric Foundation.
Recognition of Awardees
The awardees will be listed in the AOF Annual Report and the American Academy of Optometry’s awards program. Announcements will be placed in the Academy’s newsletter along with Eye-Mail Monthly. Press releases will be sent to all schools and colleges of optometry, optometric organizations, and the optometric press.
For additional information about the American Optometric Foundation, contact Mark Bullimore, MCOptom, PhD, FAAO, Development Director: by phone (614) 292-4724.
