Hundreds of newly qualified optometrists descended upon Westminster this week as the College of Optometrists held its annual Diploma Ceremony.
In total, 284 optometry students celebrated joining the profession at Central Hall, in London.
Joining the graduates were seven special individuals who were presented with College fellowships.
Fred Giltrow-Tyler, Peter Hong and Professor Stephen J Dain received life fellowships after they were recognised for their contribution to the College, with the latter flying in from Australia to receive his diploma in person.
Meanwhile, Dr John Gurney and Dr Ahmed Sivardeen were awarded fellowships by portfolio after the College recognised their achievements in the workplace.
President of the college Mary Ann Sherratt reflected on the day: ‘The Diploma Ceremony is one of the highlights of the College year. It’s our opportunity to welcome new members into the College and the profession, and to celebrate the significant achievements of some of the most talented optometrists,’ she said.
The College also recognised the achievements of some of the leading researchers in the field of optometry, with six members presented with a research excellence award for their contributions.
Finally, Professor Caroline MacEwen and Bryony Pawinska were named honorary fellows at the Westminster ceremony.
Speaking to Optician, Pawinska, CEO of the FMO, said: ‘It is a huge honour and very unexpected. But, it was really nice to be sitting in the audience and not standing there reading out all them names.’
‘All these young people work so hard to pass their assessments. It’s a really special day and I’ve loved every minute of it,’ she added.