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Crystal Anthony, ABOC

Sales Strategy and Planning Manager
Hilco Vision
Kewanee, Ill.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “Crystal helps to formulate strategic business planning for key accounts at Hilco Vision. She’s a shining example to young opticians everywhere.”





Three years into her career at Walmart (cooking rotisserie chickens at Sam’s Club), Crystal Anthony took a job in the Walmart Vision Center and her optical career began. She fell in love with the industry, soaked up every bit of knowledge she could, and knew she had found her career home.

During the next 17 years with Walmart, she served a wide variety of roles—a dispensing optician; a manager of Vision Centers in Illinois and Missouri; an expert in optical billing and compliance at Walmart headquarters; and a buyer at Sam’s Club specializing in lenses, safety and accessories. She especially enjoyed buying fun sunglasses for Sam’s Club stores in Puerto Rico, which jump-started her obsession with sunglasses.

After “retiring” from Walmart after 20 years, Anthony took an exciting opportunity at Hilco Vision—her current role as a sales strategy and planning manager for key accounts. As a certified optician and speaker, she uses her 20+ years of optical and retail knowledge to strategize ways to increase sales for key accounts and strengthen Hilco’s relationship with those customers.

Anthony enjoys working with other Hilco Vision experts to develop continuing education, and teaches at conferences, expos and other educational opportunities every chance she gets.

“I will be forever grateful that the optical industry found me because I found a community and sense of purpose,” she said.

In addition to her other responsibilities, Anthony is also the current treasurer for the Illinois Opticians Association and said she feels honored to be part of helping grow the organization and empower more opticians to invest in their careers through membership, community and education.

SHE SAYS… “Find a community that will push you past your comfort zone. Ask for opportunities and stretch roles—don’t wait for them to come to you.”


Premilla Banwait, OD, MPH, FAAO

Vice President of Clinical Programs
UnitedHealthcare Vision
Minnetonka, Minn.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “She leads efforts to advance thought leadership and clinical programs, delivering value and overall care to customers and members alike.”





After graduating from UC Berkeley Optometry School in 2009 and completing her pediatric residency, Premilla Banwait, OD, worked in pediatric optometry for nearly eight years. Even though clinical work is her passion, she wanted to learn more about the industry. In 2017, she took a consulting role with Zenni Optical and began overseeing optical product development, educational content and philanthropic initiatives.

“During the pandemic, I was compelled to improve health care access for under-resourced communities and decided to return to school in 2020 to obtain my master’s degree in public health,” she said. “I’ve since used this degree to assist in eye health campaigns, projects, research and systematic reviews. One project I’m particularly proud of securing is a social impact grant with a group of optometry students to provide vision resources for Oakland Head Start preschoolers.”

In 2023, Dr. Banwait landed her current role as VP of clinical programs at UnitedHealthcare Vision, where she advances eye health programs to support the well-being of members and collaborates with clinicians to make quality eyecare more affordable and accessible.

As a pediatric optometrist, Dr. Banwait’s insights are key as UnitedHealthcare Vision expands its children’s eyecare programs, including myopia management. She is also involved in various philanthropic efforts and is a staunch advocate for improving vision care access for children from under-resourced communities.

For example, she partnered with Prevent Blindness to develop educational eye health toolkits and resources for diabetic youth. She is also working alongside the UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation to develop a myopia management fund for lower income families.

SHE SAYS… “I strive to use data, technology and innovation to develop clinical programs that can evolve with the changing times.”


Jamy Borbidge, OD

Senior Director of Professional Development
AEG Vision
Dallas, Texas

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “She leverages her expertise to provide valuable insights, guidance and solutions to complex problems, earning the respect of her colleagues and stakeholders.”





Jamy Borbidge, OD, always knew she wanted to work in either health care or education, and thanks to her current role as senior director of professional development at AEG Vision, she’s been fortunate to do both.

After completing her undergraduate degree, she decided to pursue optometry school to fulfill her desire to be in health care. Her first career role was working as an optometrist in Boston providing direct care and precepting optometry students from the New England College of Optometry. Dr. Borbidge spent the next few years in private practices in Maine, then took a role as assistant professor and director of community outreach at Pacific University in Oregon—enabling her to draw on her passion for education.

In 2022, she joined AEG Vision as director of professional development and was recently promoted to senior director. Today, Dr. Borbidge excels at providing educational and professional development growth opportunities to doctors at AEG Vision Managed Practices. That support includes developing a new doctor onboarding program, starting a bimonthly continuing education webinar program, and creating a customized online coding module series.

This natural born leader has also been fortunate to help start and run the AEG Optometric Leadership & Advisory Council, which empowers doctors to support doctors through equipment pilots, developing clinical protocols, doctor engagement and education. Her ability to anticipate change and adapt to evolving circumstances enables her to stay ahead of the curve.

“With a focus in optometry education, I’d like to think that I’ve made an impact, if even in small ways, by supporting current and future doctors in providing high-quality, compassionate care to their patients,” she said.

SHE SAYS…”The optical field has many diverse opportunities. Follow your passion and you’ll find success.”


Mary Bowman

Senior Director, Program Management, Chief of Staff
MyEyeDr.
Vienna, Va.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “She excels at picking up new initiatives in unfamiliar areas and driving them to success, while engaging and valuing those around her.”





When it comes to leadership, Mary Bowman is the quintessential Swiss Army knife every organization aspires to have. Her journey in optical began in 2006 at her local optometrist’s office in North Carolina.

“Picture a young, non-compliant contact lens wearer, blissfully unaware of the risks, who ended up with corneal ulcers,” she said. “Treated with kindness by a local optometrist, my experience led to a surprising job offer for a working interview. The camaraderie with coworkers and the fascinating versatility of optics and optometry, along with ever-changing trends in eyewear, quickly turned a mishap into a lifelong passion.”

Starting her career at MyEyeDr. as an ABO-certified optician, Bowman progressed through roles such as practice manager, district manager, and director of operational excellence. She now serves as the chief of staff to the CEO, supporting the company’s strategic framework, serving as key liaison between the CEO and external stakeholders, and driving efficiencies that support the company’s purpose of helping patients live their best lives.

Over the years, she has managed single-unit locations and multimillion-dollar districts, supported internal operations, was the product owner for multi-year projects, and most recently, directly supports the CEO and MyEyeDr.’s strategic framework.

One of Bowman’s major accomplishments was managing the development and successful implementation of a custom web scheduler, which has dramatically improved appointment reliability and ease for both patients and staff. Her focus is always on making operational improvements and fostering collaboration to drive overall company growth.

SHE SAYS… “It’s not every entry-level job that turns into a multi-decade career and I am deeply grateful for the journey I’ve had. Working with people from diverse backgrounds and learning from every department motivates and inspires me every day.”


Katherine Christy

Regional Manager
Shopko Optical
Grayslake, Ill.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “As a regional manager, Kat plays a pivotal role in shaping the effectiveness and cohesion of the Shopko Optical team, influencing managers, opticians and doctors through her leadership, coaching and support. Through dedicated coaching and mentorship, she enhances the skills and confidence of opticians, enabling them to provide top-tier patient care and maintain high standards of service.”





Katherine Christy began her eight-year career in the optical industry in leadership roles with MyEyeDr. and Sears Optical before joining Shopko Optical as a regional manager in 2020. Today, she is responsible for the overall sales, profit and service performance of multiple optical centers in a geographic region. She also plays a key role in developing and executing strategies consistent with corporate direction to drive business.

“I find immense joy in helping people be the best version of themselves. Each day, I am inspired by the positive impact I can make in others’ lives, and I strive to motivate those around me to find the same passion and fulfilment in their own work,” she said. “By embracing the opportunities to assist and uplift others, I believe we can all cultivate a sense of purpose and love for what we do.”

Christy said she attributes much of her individual growth and accomplishments to the collaborative efforts and unwavering support of her family, friends and colleagues. She also credits her peers and leadership teams within the optical field. She said, “Each of these groups has played a pivotal role in my professional development. Their collective knowledge, expertise, and support have enabled me to expand my skills, gain valuable insights, and navigate the complexities of this industry and others with confidence.”

She said she joined the optical profession because, as a child, she struggled with vision problems. Through eye exams and discussing her journey with a close friend, she was inspired to delve deeper into the optical field. As a result, the optical industry has given her the opportunity to help others, especially families, obtain the correct information and eyecare they need.

SHE SAYS… “Empower yourself to reach beyond your limits. Most importantly, make sure you empower another woman to reach beyond her limits because there is room for all of us at the top.”


Cira Collins, ABOM, NCLEC, MPH

Principal at Optical Intuition
Lafont Account Executive
Portland, Ore.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “Cira is one of the most engaging speakers currently in the optical industry. Her passion for optics, education, patient care, and amazing frame styling is apparent in every course she teaches. After receiving her ABOM designation, she has been working diligently to inspire and mentor other women in the field to pursue their advanced and master’s certifications.”





Cira Collins is a principal at Optical Intuition, a consulting company providing sales, optical education, and public speaking services in the optical industry. She prides herself on only working with independent frame lines, lens manufacturers, labs and other companies serving the independent ECP. She represents Lafont in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska and Hawaii.

Collins sits on several boards and committees within the optical industry, including the board of directors for the ABO-NCLE and the board of directors of GoodVision USA. She also serves on a committee to build an optician apprentice program in Oregon and is a faculty member of OptiCon at Vision Expo.

“I began my career at LensCrafters when I came home from living in West Africa. I was not finding work in the field of international public health development and needed a job, but had no intention of creating a career,” she said. “I began as a frame stylist, became a technician for an optometrist, and spent some time in the lab making eyewear. I moved to a private practice where the hours were a better match for my growing family.”

Collins worked as a dispensing optician and a buyer for five years before being promoted to management, where she served four clinics for the large ophthalmology group.

“I have come to my role in the industry with a focus on a specific mission. I am lifting up opticianry. I do that by building other leaders (lifters), by working to expand the scope of our profession, and by living and teaching new ideas and concepts,” she said. “To lift, I have to be visible and wield influence like a tool. I am careful in my messaging so that I can have the most impact. I build up other leaders by speaking about leadership, by making space at the table for new leaders to step up, and meeting them where they are.”

SHE SAYS… “You may suffer from many things, but do not suffer from a crisis of imagination. Fan the flames of what you could do or who you could be. We need you to play bigger than you currently are. And when you finally become the person you want to be, tap others on the shoulder and point them toward their better selves.”


Crystal Crawford

Owner
Liberated Eyewear
Los Angeles, Calif.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “As the owner of a Black-owned, independent eyewear brand, Chrystal is influential in breaking barriers by reshaping the industry’s landscape. Her brand not only celebrates diversity but also sets trends by infusing unique cultural perspectives into eyewear design, paving the way for inclusivity and innovation in fashion.”





Crystal Crawford began her career in clinical research in oncology, dermatology and ophthalmology. She played a vital role in ensuring the rights and safety of clinical research participants are protected and the integrity of the clinical trials is sustained, which she said impacts the approval of new drugs and therapies. She also led operational incentives for Fortune 500 pharmaceutical companies that improved and developed departmental processes.

Crawford said she doesn’t believe in following trends or following others, noting that she has always found true liberation “in just being myself and making some noise along the way. I love inspiring others to be themselves and celebrate who they are. Go bold, make mistakes, fail and do it all over again, but most importantly, be yourself,” she said.

This philosophy compelled her to create an eyewear brand that represents everyone who doesn’t fit into the standard ideology of what someone should be while reinforcing the importance of eye health, and combining authentic style and quality for all.

“Being passionate about making an impact outside my career, I developed a passion for entrepreneurship and created Liberated Eyewear. Working in clinical research and drug safety required confidence and ‘know-how,’ and I was able to see firsthand how eyecare is just as important as any other sector of health care,” she said.

She pointed to her own experience of needing to wear glasses, and said that the burden of shopping for eyewear compelled her to start her own company. “I was never able to find a pair of frames that gave me confidence, and I wanted to create a brand that empowers others to celebrate their unique style.”

She said the path to a career in optical has been challenging and rewarding, adding that her advocacy for inclusivity allows her to create a supportive and diverse environment in all forms.

SHE SAYS… “Taking risks and failing is not an easy feat, but always stick to why you got started. Learn from and follow the experts, and address challenges. Keep your knowledge and skills sharp, know what’s going on in your industry, and become an expert.”


Heather Harrison

Key Account Manager, LDO, ABOC
Carl Zeiss Vision
Virginia Beach, Va.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “She is willing to jump in headfirst—and with such risk-taking, she helps her customers achieve the highest level of success.”






Heather Harrison never believed her senior year job at a Walmart Vision Center would evolve into a 26-year career in the optical realm. Her first job became her passion, and after graduation she pursued every effort to rise in the industry.

First, she completed the apprenticeship program for licensed dispensing opticians in Virginia, followed by an optical license and ABOC designation, while working as a licensed optical manager for Walmart.

During her time with Walmart Optical, she received Vision Center Manager of the Year and Optician of the Year awards for several consecutive years. In 2018, she transitioned her career as a business development representative for Carl Zeiss Vision, and in 2022, she was promoted to associate and key account manager.

As a key account manager, Harrison oversees the management, objectives, and plans for the assigned customers within the wholesale and regional customer base within the United States, including U.S. territories. Her management extends the full range of wholesale and regional retail relationships across all business segments, including lab Rx services, lens substrate, dispensing tools, AR coatings, lens accessories, and lab enablement across Zeiss-branded, non-branded and OEM product portfolios. She also implements new product rollouts and upgrades.

“The industry is a blend of technical innovation, personal interaction, and the opportunity to positively impact people’s lives—and I think my career reflects how truly inspiring and rewarding that can be,” she said.

With over 25 years of experience in the vision care industry, Harrison has an expanded footprint across the U.S.—she regularly shares her experiences and optical knowledge with fellow opticians, lab managers and optical business owners.

SHE SAYS… “Innovation in the industry keeps it dynamic and exciting—there’s nothing like taking on a challenge and finding a creative solution.”


Heather Kowalczyk

Vice President
McDougall Communications
Rochester, N.Y.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “She shapes how the eyecare community communicates with their audiences. If you’re within the optical industry, it’s a near certainty you’ve seen and been influenced by her content strategies. Yet her role is more than managerial—it’s the caliber of her ideas, the quality of her writing, and her ability to collaborate that has been instrumental in helping more than 150 optical industry professionals become more knowledgeable, capable and successful spokespeople.






In her current role as vice president of McDougall Communications, Heather Kowalczyk works with editorial teams to develop comprehensive public relations programs that reflect their brand, mission and messaging. And although she’s worked with a wide variety of industries, including optical, medical device telecommunications, accounting, high technology, education and more, she’s found optical to be the “friendliest.”

Kowalczyk, who has an accredited in public relations designation, provides executive level counsel to the likes of CooperVision, Lumenis, Optometry Giving Sight and BioTissue. She also coaches eyecare professionals worldwide, helping them grow clinical and practice management initiatives. Her programs and content are regularly used by Vision Monday, Women In Optometry and other optical industry media.

“I’ve dedicated my career to partnering with eyecare professionals to innovate their practices and improve their patient experiences,” she said.

Kowalczyk’s 20-year career has an impressive list of accomplishments, including two coveted PRSA Silver Anvil Awards for McDougall’s work on CooperVision’s launch of MyDay multifocal contact lenses, and content which is read and shared by thousands in the optometry community each week.

SHE SAYS… “There are so many optometry stories to tell. Nothing is more satisfying that uncovering a story that has yet to be told and figuring out the best way to get it out to the masses.”


Nadine Lewandowski

Vice President of Sales and Marketing
IDOC
Tampa, Fla.

CHOSEN BECAUSE…“She has brought numerous innovative programs and offerings to the optical world, and she is a powerful voice and role model for other women in the industry.”






With both parents as doctors, Nadine Lewandowski had always hoped for a career in health care, specifically in pharmaceutical or medical device sales. However, as a recent college graduate, she found herself going into B2B sales that directed her to clients in the optical field.

After 14 years at Alcon, working in sales leadership, training, strategic accounts, and marketing roles for both Optometry and Ophthalmology, Lewandowski joined IDOC as vice president of sales and marketing in 2023. Earlier this year, Lewandowski was also promoted to lead the organization’s optometry marketing services and books & benchmarks services.

Currently, she leads over 30 team members, including seven senior leaders in sales, marketing, services, and strategic partnerships. In total, she oversees the management of 60+ vendor partnerships, 45+ member directors, 1,600+ OD members, 200+ marketing and bookkeeping accounts, and an annual conference with 1,000+ attendees. Lewandowski has both rebranded and relaunched the Financial and Marketing Services at IDOC.

“I pride myself on having helped optometrists grow their practices and help give their patients access to the latest technologies,” she said.

In the strategic partnership space, Lewandowski has brought innovative approaches that have been incorporated in the variety of programs offered to IDOC members, leading to the continued growth of vendor partners with IDOC members.

Her awards include President’s Club (Top 10% in Sales in Vision Care), Masters Club (Marketer of the Year in Surgical Marketing), Global Marketing Awards, North America One Team Awards, and US Surgical Team Awards.

She also mentors and coaches IDOC team members; Lewandowski is proud to have coached several team members to also earn their own President’s Club sales awards and several promotions while at Alcon.

SHE SAYS… “I am passionate about helping others unlock their full potential so that they can feel inspired by what they do every day.”


Melissa Parker

Director of Plexus Operations
VSP Vision
Rancho Cordova, Calif.

CHOSEN BECAUSE… “Her expertise in the industry results in improved products—and productivity.”





Melissa Parker fell into the optical field by chance. She was invited to a VSP job fair while studying communications in college. Thinking she’d only work with VSP until she graduated, she surprised herself by rising in the company ranks to director of Plexus Operations within her 27-year career.

In her current role, Parker manages the Plexus Operations team, a wholly owned subsidiary of VSP that administers supply chain through a streamlined distribution model, with its primary objective to deliver a wide range of ophthalmic products and services.

Her main responsibilities as director include managing the VSP Lab Network and the VSP Ophthalmic Formulary. The development of her team has expanded the VSP Lab Network to work with most of the ophthalmic labs and key manufacturers within the industry.

Parker is passionate about the technological advancements in optical over the years. She ensures that VSP Vision offers competitive, relevant, and high-quality ophthalmic products, and improves the industry standard of building collaborative teams who are dedicated to top-notch eyecare solutions.

“One of my biggest accomplishments would align with the development and support of my team,” she said. “It’s important to build a team that enjoys working together, that works toward the same goal, and that support each other. We share in the same successes at the end of the day.”

She has had the opportunity to work with many audiences, including members, doctors, clients and brokers in her work with VSP. Parker also participates in the Optical Women’s Association (OWA) and The Vision Council.

SHE SAYS…“When it comes to professional development, find a mentor who has a skill or a strength you want to develop. Then do what they do.”