Howard Purcell, OD, president and CEO of the New England College of Optometry, was honored with the 2025 Person of Vision Award by Prevent Blindness at a gala aligning with Vision Expo East in Orlando on Feb. 19.

Ahead of the event, Eyecare Business caught up with Dr. Purcell and Prevent Blindness president and CEO Jeff Todd to hear more about this commendable recognition as well as the Person of Vision Award gala.

Dr. Purcell stressed the importance of collaboration between optometry and ophthalmology and the role of Prevent Blindness in advocating for vision care. Jeff Todd highlighted the organization's ongoing initiatives, including a five-year strategic plan focused on education, advocacy, and collaboration, as well as efforts to pass the Early Detection of Vision Impairment for Children Act. The discussion also explored the evolving role of academic institutions in preparing future optometrists, particularly in adapting to advancements like artificial intelligence, telehealth, and 3D printing. Both stressed the importance of industry collaboration and innovation to enhance patient care and ensure accessibility to eye health resources.

Watch below for more.

Vision Expo East takes place Feb. 19-21 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. Keep up with the action from the event on Eyecare Business’s Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, and see EB’s BIG Vision Expo East Guide for a curated selection of education and events here.