The BC Doctors of Optometry honoured key individuals for their significant contributions to the profession of optometry and community at the Annual BC Doctors of Optometry conference on Sunday, February 21, 2016. The association recognized Dr. Brenda Horner of New Westminster, Dr. Paul Neumann of Saanichton, Dr. Harbir Sian of Abbotsford, and Sharanne Gaiga of Port Alberni.
A dedicated optometrist, community member, and business leader, Dr. Brenda Horner was presented with the President’s Award. Dr. Horner was instrumental in introducing the children’s vision program, Eye See … Eye Learn® in B.C. A business leader, she was the past president of New Westminster Networking Women and received a ‘Business Person of the Year’ nomination three times from the local Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Horner plans to retire from clinical practice in May after a successful 30-year career.
Dr. Paul Neumann was presented with the Optometrist of the Year Award. He is known for his contribution to the advancement of optometry. Dr. Neumann was involved in the successful negotiations for the new five-year optometry agreement with the BC Government. He has been active in the BC Doctors of Optometry over the past two decades and was a 2012 President Award recipient.
Recognized as an outstanding member in practice for less than 10 years, Dr. Harbir Sian was presented with the Young Optometrist of the Year award. Passionate about public education and community engagement, Dr. Sian started his own blog to inform the community about eye care. In 2015, he volunteered in Colombia to provide eye exams and glasses to over 2000 people.
Sharanne Gaiga was awarded the Certified Optometric Assistant of the Year Award. Gaiga was instrumental in the creation of a vision therapy clinic in 2005 in Port Alberni and goes above and beyond to screen minor hockey players for concussions. A team player and inspirational member at her workplace, Gaiga continues to be an advocate of eye health today.
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About BC Doctors of Optometry
BC Doctors of Optometry is dedicated to advancing the profession of optometry, and is the voice on issues affecting the eye health of all British Columbians.
Doctors of Optometry are a primary source for vision, eye health and eyewear needs. Doctors of Optometry diagnose, treat and help prevent diseases and disorders affecting the eyes and the visual system, and also assist in identifying general health conditions that are often first detected through an eye exam. To find a BC Doctor of Optometry, visit bc.doctorsofoptometry.ca.
For more information or photographs, contact:
Shannon Levesque
Manager, Communications and Member Engagement
slevesque@optometrists.bc.ca
604.737.9907
