March 5, 2021 — The Optical Women’s Association (OWA) has announced its 2021 award honorees: Gai Gherardi, co-founder and co-designer of l.a.Eyeworks, and Deborah Myres, owner of Visual Inspirations.

Gherardi will receive the Pleiades award, which recognizes exceptional action in advancing the leadership role of women in the optical industry. 

Myres will be honored with the Pyxis award, which recognizes an OWA member who actively participates in the organization and contributes to its growth.

“Each year, the OWA recognizes women who exemplify what it means to truly be a passionate, effective leader in the optical industry,” says Robyn Crimmins, OWA president. “This year, we are proud to honor Gai Gherardi, a visionary and trailblazer who reimagined what an eyewear company could be, and Debbie Myres, whose commitment, enthusiasm, and hard work resulted in OWA programs enjoyed by hundreds of OWA members.”

The OWA has shared that it will soon announce the time and place of the awards presentation. 

Learn more about these inspiring women in optical and their trailblazing feats here: opticalwomen.com/awards.asp.