VSP Vision has named Dr. Roheena Malik, a VSP network optometrist and 2025 VSP Future Leaders Academy graduate, as the inaugural recipient of the Dr. Stephanie Kirschbaum Living in Purpose Award. The award recognizes optometrists who demonstrate a commitment to service and expanding access to eye care, and includes a community grant and vision care outreach initiative.
The Living in Purpose Program was established in honor of Dr. Stephanie Kirschbaum, a longtime VSP network optometrist, California VSP Ambassador, and VSP Eyes of Hope advocate. Dr. Malik was selected for her work providing care through collaborative, community-based initiatives and for developing solutions that ensure patients receive care with respect and dignity.
"Dr. Stephanie Kirschbaum's legacy is rooted in compassion, service, and a deep belief that access to care can transform lives," said Michelle Skinner, chief provider solutions officer at VSP Vision. "Dr. Malik brings that legacy to life through her dedication to serving others, and we are proud to recognize her as the first recipient of this award and support her efforts to close critical gaps in care."
As the inaugural award recipient, Dr. Malik will partner with Parker Family Health Center to host a multi-day VSP Eyes of Hope mobile clinic in New Jersey from Aug. 17–20. The event will provide eye care and eyewear at no cost to adults and children in need. Parker Family Health Center will also receive a $10,000 grant from VSP Vision to support its mission of providing essential health care services to underserved members of the community.
"I'm incredibly honored to receive this award and to carry forward Dr. Kirschbaum's inspiring legacy," Dr. Malik said. "I've always believed that health is a human right, and that no one should go without care because of where they live or what they can afford. Partnering with Parker Family Health Center lets us bring eye care directly to the communities that need it most and connect them to ongoing care, so their health keeps getting the attention it deserves."
VSP Vision said that, through its VSP Eyes of Hope program, the company and its network doctors have helped provide access to no-cost eye care and eyewear for more than 4.5 million people in need worldwide. Applications for the 2027 Dr. Stephanie Kirschbaum Living in Purpose Program will open in January 2027.