MASON, Ohio—Luxottica and the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) have selected 25 optometry students to travel to Tanzania on mission to help people first hand who need access to vision care.

The two organizations previously announced a partnership to give students the opportunity to apply to take part in the May 2017 mission in late November 2016, as VMail reported.

“The student support and interest in joining this unprecedented experience was overwhelming,” stated Erick Henderson, the president of the AOSA. “The selection committee, comprised of student leaders from the AOSA and other leaders of the American Optometric Association, reviewed nearly 500 applications from highly talented students to identify the 25 to receive the opportunity for an experience that will fuel their passion and careers for years to come.”

Jason Singh, OD, chief medical officer, Luxottica Retail North America, added, “The profession of optometry looks incredibly bright if these applications are any indication of the talent and passion who will provide eyecare in the near future. Excellence in patient care remains a core focus for our Luxottica affiliated doctors, whether in their practices or a OneSight clinic. This team will humbly care for thousands of patients while building lasting friendships and memories that are often created by service experiences. OneSight represents the heart of our company and our passion to provide clear vision to those in need.”

On the trip, OD students will work under the supervision of Luxottica Retail affiliated ODs performing comprehensive eye exams. They will also help support a core team of Luxottica volunteers in the frame fitting, manufacturing and dispensing of new eyewear. For the 25 OD students selected, Luxottica will cover expenses associated with the clinic, including air fare, accommodations and meals.

OneSight is a leading organization focused on bringing both sustainable and urgent vision care solutions to the communities around the world. To date, OneSight has helped nine million people in 46 countries see clearly. By 2020, OneSight will provide ongoing access to vision care to over 20 million people, the organization said.

The selected students who represent 16 leading optometry schools across three graduation years are: Lananh Ngo, Jessica Ward, Melissa Tawa, Tristan Barrueco, Jed Harrison, Tiffany Nguyen, Sarah Gleason, Jessica Thornton, Maryam Khan, Hieu Nguyen, Sara Banilohi, Danielle Sabelli, Darlene Kim, Hannah Greenfield, Katherine McCracken, Julie Schaefer, Caitlin McQueen, Jaclyn Chang, Fayiz Mahgoub, Brittni Rodriguez, Denis Shlosman, Carly Grondin, Shane Stevens, Paul Krabill and Jessica Bodamer.