Dr. Puerto’s email signoff is “Carpe Diem”—and it’s fitting. 

“Never doubt that our small but mighty profession can accomplish great things,” she says. “Life pulls us in many directions, and we have to make a decision to be at the table daily—and to bring a colleague along with you!”

Whether it’s working to protect optometry legislatively, sitting on multiple nonprofit boards, leading the Optometry Association of Louisiana executive board, or focusing on patient care at Louisiana Family Eyecare in Covington, LA, Dr. Puerto fervently seizes opportunities to better the profession.

Here, the winner of the American Optometric Association’s 2023 Young Optometrist of the Year award dishes on dedication. 

Your most distinctive characteristic?

My leadership or public speaking. I spent many formidable years in middle school speech and drama club, with a firm but unconditionally supportive coach—Mrs. Portwood—who made me keenly aware of poise, persuasion, and pronunciation.

Greatest advice to fellow O.D.s right now?

We must hold steadfast to this moral compass in light of disrupters, knowing this characteristic gives us the strength to ethically adapt, evolve, and stand tall in the face of the challenges that come our way.

Most likely to splurge on?

Travel! I don’t mean going first class, but you better believe we’re going to order the extra dessert and take that extra excursion. Moments are worth the memories.

Greatest source of inspiration?

My parents! My father immigrated from Colombia, South America, and all I do is to honor his tireless work and dedication to see the American dream become a reality for his family.

Inspiration to pursuing a career in optometry?

My passion for government and politics led me to our profession that has been my stepping stone to positively impact my community and more recently my launchpad to fervently defend our legislated profession and become more civically involved in my community.

Best activity to find calm?

Simply unplugging—turning off my computer, setting down the cellphone, and spending time with my pets, family, or friends.