(PRESS RELEASE) DULUTH, GA — National Vision Holdings, Inc., one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States, announced the winners of its 11th annual scholarship program. Awarding a total of $12,500 in scholarships to three optometry students, National Vision aims to support and inspire the next generation of optometrists as they drive the future of eye care innovation.
Annually, the program invites optometry students to submit essays or videos examining a key topic transforming the eye care industry. For the 2025-2026 scholarship, third-and-fourth-year students shared their perspectives on “Emerging Technology in Optometry,” analyzing how cutting-edge technologies can help break barriers in eye care accessibility. Students explored how these innovations can transform eye care, considering both their potential benefits and challenges.
“Technology provides tremendous opportunity to help expand access to high-quality and accessible eye care,” said Alexander Smith, O.D., Head of Doctor Network at National Vision. “Hearing the next generation of optometrists’ perspectives is crucial as they will help shape our industry’s future. As we endeavor to bring affordable eye care to all, we are equally proud to help support these outstanding students in their journeys.”
The 2025-2026 scholarship program winners include:
- First Place ($7,500): Isabelle Kreydin, Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University, Class of 2026
- Runner-Up ($2,500): Eliana Goncuian, Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University, Class of 2026
- Runner-Up ($2,500): Alexa Frye, Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry, Class of 2026
The program was open to third- and fourth-year optometry students in good standing at an optometry school in the U.S., Puerto Rico or Canada. Submissions were reviewed by a panel of licensed optometrists who ultimately selected the scholarship recipients.
