PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.—Black EyeCare Perspective (BEP) has announced the establishment of the 13% Promise Scholarship Endowment Fund, a pivotal initiative aimed at upholding the legacy and vision of Black EyeCare Perspective. The Walman Charitable Giving Committee has kickstarted the endowment with a transformative $75,000 grant. Stated Marty Bassett, president and CEO of Walman, "We are honored that our initial gift helped set the stage for such an important initiative. Tuition support should help reduce barriers for those interested in pursuing a career in optometry.”

Black EyeCare Perspective's announcement noted, "The committee’s generosity is driven by the hope that it will inspire other organizations in the optical industry to make similar commitments." 

Committed to advancing the health care profession with a focus on representation, Black EyeCare Perspective has positively impacted the lives and careers of more than 200 pre-optometry students, including those from 15 Historically Black Colleges and Universities, representing 50 undergraduate institutions.

Since its inception in 2020, Black EyeCare Perspective has awarded over $84,000 to entering and current optometry students through individual contributions and industry partnerships. The 13% Promise Scholarship Endowment Fund aims to continue and expand these efforts.

During this month's Black History Month, Black EyeCare Perspective calls upon corporations and organizations to join in amplifying the impact of the endowment fund. The invitation is extended to match or exceed the generous contribution from the Walman Charitable Giving Committee. With the collective goal of surpassing $1 million, the endowment will become a perpetual source of scholarships and grants for future optometrists, fostering diversity and representation in the eyecare profession.

Individuals and organizations interested in supporting this cause are encouraged to contact Black EyeCare Perspective at info@blackeyecareperspective.com. "Together, we can shape a future where opportunities in optometry are accessible to all, making a lasting impact on the lives and careers of aspiring optometrists," the organization said.

Black EyeCare Perspective, founded by optometrists Drs. Adam Ramsey and Darryl Glover, was designed and created to cultivate and foster lifelong relationships between African Americans and the eyecare industry. Along with Drs. Essence Johnson (executive director), Jacobi Cleaver (chief program officer) and Tiffany Humes (business transformation manager), Black EyeCare Perspective is redefining the color of the eyecare industry 1% at a time by creating a pipeline for Black students into optometry through its BEPPOC and other initiatives.