The College of Optometrists welcomed 460 new optometrists to the profession in its annual ceremony at Central Hall, overlooking Westminster Abbey Hall, on Tuesday November 7.
In an address, College president, professor Leon Davies FCOptom, said: ‘Today marks a milestone in your careers and will, I hope, be a day that you remember fondly forever.
‘Your careers will make a positive difference to the lives of many patients, as you help to preserve and enhance their vision and their lives. There will be both challenges and opportunities along the way, and I wish each and every one of you the very best as you go forward.’
The College awarded three new Life Fellowships and two Honorary Fellowships during the event – the highest accolades awarded by the College for outstanding contribution to the profession or the College.
Four College members received a ‘Fellowship by Portfolio’ in recognition of their achievements in the workplace and outstanding contributions to furthering excellence in optometry.
The College’s prestigious Research Excellence Awards also recognised the exceptional work of talented and committed individuals working in the fields of optometry, optics and vision science.