Jason Romero.

ALEXANDRIA, Va.—Vision Expo East presented and organized by The Vision Council, and RX (Reed Exhibitions), announced Jason Romero, a legally blind ultra-runner, as the keynote speaker, as the annual conference returns to New York City next month from March 16-19, 2023 (Education opens March 16; Exhibits open March 17). “After losing his vision to a degenerative condition, Jason defied the odds to become an Ultra-runner, crossing the United States on foot in only 60 days,” said Mitch Barkley, vice president of Trade Shows and Meetings at The Vision Council.

“Jason’s story of resilience and success underscores the life-changing value of sight and is an inspiration to us all. We are excited for attendees to hear from such an astounding and persevering speaker,” Barkley said.
 
“Challenge to Change” will feature remarks from Romero on Vision Expo’s main stage, The Bridge, on Saturday, March 18 at 3:30 p.m. where he will discuss his transformational journey from a successful executive to an unemployed, blind man, to an elite-extreme athlete with more than 10 world records.
 
“We are thrilled to welcome Jason Romero to the Vision Expo East education lineup,” said Fran Pennella, vice president, Vision Expo at RX. “His inspirational story is just one example of the dynamic leaders and thought-provoking conversations that attendees will hear during this year’s Vision Expo East.”
 
Romero’s address will add to the tone for the educational and speaker series during Vision Expo East 2023, expected to be the largest U.S. optical industry gathering in recent years and will provide attendees with groundbreaking content, products and services revolutionizing the vision care industry.
 
“Losing my sight has had a profound impact on my life,” said Romero. “More than anyone else, I understand the value of vision care and I’m honored to have the opportunity to speak with so many innovators and leaders in the eyecare community.”
 
In addition to the Keynote Address, Expo attendees, including optometrists, opticians, and other allied professionals, are invited to take advantage of the meeting’s robust certified educational offering featuring over 300+ hours of accredited education and learn from over 100 of the industry’s the most knowledgeable experts in the field. Topics range from disease management and practice growth to lens innovation, eyewear trends, and more. To learn more visit Vision Ed.
 
If you are interested in attending, register here. Media registration is available here. If you are interested in exhibiting, contact Cedric Fellows, Sales, Vision Expo East.