Dr. David Golden.

ST. LOUIS—Optometry Cares – the AOA Foundation, in collaboration with PERC Alliance, a leading provider of financial and business solutions for optometrists, is announcing the launch of the Golden Opportunity Award, a groundbreaking initiative designed to honor the legacy of the late Dr. David Golden while providing substantial support to emerging optometric professionals. The prestigious award seeks to empower three deserving optometrists with a $50,000 scholarship each to facilitate the realization of their aspirations to establish their first independent practice.

Dr. Golden, an esteemed figure in the optometry community, was known for his unwavering commitment to excellence and dedication to advancing the field. In celebration of his memory and profound impact, the Golden Opportunity Award aims to carry forward his spirit of fostering the growth and success of future leaders in independent optometry. Dr. Golden passed away in September 2021, as VMAIL reported.

“We are thrilled to launch the Golden Opportunity Award in partnership with the American Optometric Association (AOA), Optometry Cares and the Golden family,” said Dr. Jason Lake, general manager of PERC Alliance. “This initiative represents a significant opportunity to support aspiring optometrists in achieving their dreams of practice ownership, something Dr. Golden was passionate about.”

The Golden Opportunity Award places particular emphasis on individuals from underrepresented groups within the optometric profession or those who aspire to establish practices in underserved areas of populations in need. By prioritizing inclusivity and community impact, the award aims to foster a more diverse and equitable landscape within the field of optometry. 

“As an organization dedicated to promoting independent optometrists and the patients they serve, PERC Alliance is honored to partner with Optometry Cares – the AOA Foundation in launching the Golden Opportunity Award,” Dr. Lake said. “We believe that by investing in the next generation of optometric leaders, we can contribute to the advancement of eyecare.”

Applications for the Golden Opportunity Award are now open, and eligible candidates are encouraged to apply by March 31, 2024. To learn more about the Award and application requirements, click here.

Optometry Cares – the AOA Foundation is a charitable organization of the American Optometric Association (AOA). Its mission is to expand eye health and vision care access to everyone in the U.S. to enhance human performance and quality of life. Through scholarships, grants, and outreach programs, Optometry Cares supports optometric education, research, and patient care initiatives. 

PERC Alliance is committed to empowering independent practitioners to achieve their professional and personal goals. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, PERC Alliance delivers comprehensive support and resources tailored to the unique needs of optometric practices.