Kemi Burgen

The ceremony marked the transition of the class of 2028 from didactic coursework to clinical training. The program included opening remarks regarding the responsibilities of patient care, an educational presentation on the history and symbolism of the white coat in the medical profession, and discussions concerning the integration of basic and clinical sciences. Additionally, the Alumni Association provided support to the students as they prepare for their upcoming clinical rotations and board examinations.

This document details the annual institutional goals and objectives for Academic Year 2026, serving as an operational alignment with the College's broader 'Transforming Vision for a Better Future' Strategic Plan (2026-2031). The goals are structured around core themes of Excellence, Innovation, and Engagement, and focus on key areas including leadership transition, the development of the Upstate Extension Program, infrastructure modernization, expanded community outreach, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. Further specific priorities address professional and residency education, student support, graduate programs and research, patient care quality, community development, infrastructure efficiency, and enhancing institutional visibility as a premier academic health center.

This strategic plan outlines a five-year roadmap aimed at transforming eye and vision care, with the vision of establishing the institution as a world-leading optometric academic health center. It is centered around seven core goals that prioritize excellence, innovation, and engagement. These include improving community outreach and care access, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community, optimizing operations and the learning environment, raising visibility and brand recognition, attracting and supporting excellent applicants, delivering innovative educational programs, and driving innovation in vision research and eye care.

This Strategic Plan outlines the direction for The State University of New York College of Optometry from 2026 to 2031, aiming to transform eye and vision care to become a world-leading optometric academic health center. It focuses on three key themes: achieving excellence in education, student support, and patient care; fostering innovation in eye and vision research, clinical education, and the use of new technologies; and enhancing engagement by creating an inclusive community, expanding outreach, and increasing access to care.

The BronxCare Health System Optometry Residency in Ocular Disease/Primary Care Optometry is a 52-week full-time program with a threefold focus: clinical care, didactic education, and scholarly activity. Residents engage in extensive patient care, including primary eye care, acute/emergency care, and specialized rotations in ophthalmology sub-specialties like retina, glaucoma, and neuro-ophthalmology. The program integrates didactic learning through lectures, case studies, and journal clubs, complemented by scholarly activities such as presentations and manuscript preparation, aiming to enhance residents' skills in diagnosing and managing ocular diseases and fostering professional development.