June 12, 2024 — Optometry Cares—The American Optometric Association (AOA) Foundation and PERC Alliance have announced the inaugural recipients of the Golden Opportunity Award: Rebecca Chown, O.D., FAAO; Melissa Macco, O.D.; and Alyssa Putman, O.D. Each award recognizes optometrists who demonstrate dedication to their profession and commitment to serving underrepresented and underserved communities. Each recipient will receive $50,000 to open their own practice and will be honored on Thursday, June 20, at the American Optometric Student Association Optometry Student Bowl during Optometry’s Meeting in Nashville, TN.
Dr. Rebecca Chown of Hood River, OR, is a 2003 graduate of Pacific University College of Optometry who founded Envision Eye Care for All, a nonprofit mobile vision clinic. She aims to address inequities in accessing primary eye health services. “Winning this award makes the dream of a mobile health unit possible,” says Dr. Chown. She is also pursuing a Master's degree in public health to advocate for the inclusion of eye health services in section 330 of the Public Health Service Act.
Dr. Melissa Macco of Reno, NV, is a 2017 graduate of Western University College of Optometry and a first-generation American whose parents emigrated from Peru. “This award will be directly invested into the practice my husband and I are currently building,” says Dr. Macco. She aims to strengthen her relationships with the Community Health Alliance and NV Hopes Clinic to serve the Latino community, addressing language, cultural, and economic barriers to primary eye care. Dr. Macco and her husband plan to open their practice this summer in Reno, NV.
Dr. Alyssa Putman of Elmira, NY, is a 2012 graduate of Salus University focused on providing patient care and creating a supportive work environment. “This award is such an honor to continue Dr. Golden's legacy of elevating those around him and helping others to climb the ladder of success,” says Dr. Putman. She plans to use the award to acquire new technology for patient care and to fund biannual free clinics. Dr. Putman is acquiring a practice in Elmira, NY, later this year.
These recipients are recognized for their service and dedication to advancing optometric care in their communities.