PINELLAS PARK, Fla., June , 2025 – Transitions, in partnership with its Optical Advancement
Board, has named the recipients for its Optical Advancement Educational Grant program, which
aims to help support and empower the next generation of optometrists and opticians.
“We’re proud to celebrate the talent and ambition of this year’s educational grant program
winners. Their dedication to innovation, community engagement, eye health education and
inclusivity are the driving forces behind the future of the optical industry,” said Arlene Barringer,
senior marketing manager, trade communications, Transitions. “We’re confident they will make
meaningful contributions to the field and are honored to be a part of their journey.”
Transitions Optical received 50 entries from students across the U.S. It awarded two grants in
the amount of $5,000 to two optometry students enrolled and attending accredited U.S.
optometry colleges. Additionally, three grants in the amount of $1,000 were awarded to three
students attending or aspiring to attend opticianry programs in the U.S.
Transitions ® Optical Advancement Grant Awardees
The Transitions ® Optical Advancement Board—comprised of a diverse group of practicing
optometrists, ophthalmologists and opticians—served as the judging committee for all grants.
The 2025 optometry grant awardees include:
Annalyse Belton, an incoming Year 1 student at Southern College of Optometry
Shelby Laitipaya, a Year 2 optometry student at New England College of Optometry
The 2025 opticianry grant awardees include:
Takenya Moody, an opticianry program student at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community
College
Rebecca Moore, an opticianry program student at Hillsborough Community College
Shahd Othman, a graduating high school senior and incoming opticianry program
student at Erie Community College
The Optical Advancement grant funds can be used to help defray costs associated with
pursuing a career in the optical industry, such as exam fees, textbooks, and other educational
materials associated with curriculum and tuition reimbursement.
With the ambition to help ease financial burden for students aspiring to join the optical industry
and shape the future of compassionate, patient-centered care, the Transitions Optical
Advancement grant program will continue, with plans to announce a call for applications in Q1
Those students interested in applying are encouraged to follow Transitions on social
media for any updates.
About the Transitions ® Brand
Transitions, part of Essilor Luxottica group, has been pioneering light modulation for more than
30 years. With over 1,400 patents and patent applications, today it is the leading brand of the
dynamic lenses category recommended by eyecare professionals worldwide and worn by more
than 60 million people. Transitions ® features a full portfolio of light-responsive lenses that
seamlessly adapt to changing light situations, from clear indoor to dark outdoors. For more
information visit Transitions.com or TransitionsPRO.com.
