Photo provided by CooperVision
CooperVision connects with and educates the future of the profession through its student leadership program
April 30, 2026
CooperVision continues to support the future of optometry through its Student Contact Lens and Myopia Leadership Society, a yearlong professional development program designed to prepare optometry students for clinical practice and leadership. As part of the program, CooperVision recently hosted its 2026 Summit at the company’s global headquarters in Victor, New York.
AN IMMERSIVE CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
The Summit provided an immersive experience within the broader program. Students participated in interactive workshops focused on toric, multifocal and myopia management contact lenses, designed to build fitting confidence and reinforce evidence-based care. Small-group rotations encouraged discussion, collaboration, and real-world clinical problem-solving. Students also toured CooperVision’s Rochester-area manufacturing and distribution facilities, gaining firsthand insight into how made-to-order contact lenses are manufactured and delivered globally.
“The CooperVision Summit has elevated my confidence in fitting and troubleshooting toric, multifocal, ortho-K and MiSight® 1 day contact lenses,” said Gabrielle Nelson, a student at Michigan College of Optometry. “It has also given me the opportunity to meet both industry and student leaders who I otherwise would not have been able to engage with and learn from.”
AN EMPHASIS ON PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
In addition to clinical education, the Summit emphasized professional growth, with sessions focused on wellness, communication, leadership pathways and career development. Panel discussions and networking activities created opportunities for students to engage directly with CooperVision leaders and their peers.
“This experience deepened my understanding of CooperVision’s innovative contact lens designs and approach to myopia management as a standard of care, while allowing me to connect with like-minded individuals,” said Helena Woo, University of Waterloo. “I am extremely grateful to be a part of a program led by a company with a strong commitment to supporting students, the profession and giving back to the community.”
ELEVATING OPTOMETRY STUDENTS
The CooperVision Student Contact Lens and Myopia Leadership Society brings together select second- and third-year optometry students from schools across the U.S. and Canada, nominated by faculty to serve one-year ambassador roles. Members gain access to hands-on education, leadership development, networking and exposure to industry and clinical perspectives throughout the academic year. Through programs like this, CooperVision reinforces its commitment to advancing optometric education and supporting future leaders of the profession.
“Through the Student Contact Lens and Myopia Leadership Society, we aim to connect education with real-world experience,” said Steve Rosinski, OD, Senior Manager, Professional Affairs, Northeast, CooperVision. “The program is designed to help students build confidence, develop leadership skills, network with future leaders and prepare for long-term success in the profession.”
Learn more here.
