HAUPPAUGE, N.Y.—ClearVision Optical, in collaboration with the Optical Women's Association (OWA), has announced the second round of submissions for the ClearVision-Adira Grant Program. This initiative, designed to support the personal and professional development of women in the optical industry, will begin accepting submissions on July 17, 2024, according to the announcement. As reported in VMAIL, Danielle D. Crull, owner and master optician at A Child's Eyes, and Michelle Kelley, director of ophthalmic services and materials at Southern College of Optometry, were the recipients of the first round of grants.

In the second round, three grants of $2,000 each will be awarded to deserving OWA members, according to the groups.

“(I am) so grateful for the opportunity to express my passion for helping nonverbal patients and then find the most amazing support among my peers, ClearVision and the OWA,” Crull said. “This grant will help me bring a literal voice to those so often overlooked in our communities. Thank you so much.”

“I am humbled to be chosen and honored to share this with one of my heroes, Danielle Crull,” said Kelley. “I am pursuing my MBA to enhance my skills to give back to an industry that I love. I encourage women of opticianry to dream big. Thank you, ClearVision and OWA, for supporting women in the optical industry." 

The ClearVision-Adira Grant Program was launched to empower women in the optical industry by providing financial support to help them achieve their professional and personal aspirations. This collaboration between ClearVision and the OWA underscores a shared commitment to championing women's achievements and potential within the industry, the groups said.

The grant program is named for Adira, an eyewear collection made for every facet and stage of women's lives, according to the announcement. To qualify for the grant program, OWA members are invited to submit personalized essays. Using one or more provided prompts, applicants’ essays should reflect on how the grant will assist in their professional or personal lives, and what they need to help them achieve their goals or overcome challenges. 

Submissions for the second round of grants will begin on July 17, 2024 and will be accepted until the end of August, according to the announcement. A panel determined by the OWA and ClearVision will select finalists. Afterward, OWA members will have the opportunity to vote for the winners from among the chosen nominees. All essays will be anonymized for the voting process to ensure fairness and impartiality, according to the announcement.

More information about the grant program and detailed submission instructions will be available to OWA members in the coming weeks, the announcement said.