Golden Opportunity Award Winners

Dr. Danielle Richardson is launching Clarity Eye Aesthetics, a wellness-centered optometric practice in West Hollywood, CA. As one of the few black optometrists practicing in the Los Angeles area, Dr. Richardson brings a uniquely inclusive approach to care, focusing on advanced dry eye treatment, holistic wellness, and culturally competent service. Her practice will integrate educational outreach and mentorship programs aimed at increasing representation in optometry.

Dr. Kayla Campbell, based in Vienna, WV, is acquiring Vienna Eye Clinic, a long-standing practice that serves Wood County and surrounding rural areas. With a deep-rooted passion for her Appalachian community, Dr. Campbell is committed to expanding access to medically focused optometric services, including diabetic eye care and dry eye management, while developing outreach programs and satellite clinics for underserved populations.

Dr. Rebecca Chown, a 2003 graduate of Pacific University College of Optometry and a veteran optometrist, is dedicated to serving underserved communities. She founded Envision Eye Care for All, a non-profit mobile vision clinic, to address inequities in accessing primary eye health services. “Winning this award makes the dream of a mobile health unit possible,” said Dr. Chown. Her mission is to provide exceptional eye care in an inclusive environment, sensitive to the diverse needs of marginalized communities. Dr. Chown is also pursuing a Master’s degree in public health to effect systemic change at a policy level. Her goal is to get recognition of eye health and vision services in section 330 of the Public Health Service Act, which would allow federally qualified health centers to add vision services as an expanded service.

Dr. Melissa Macco, who graduated from Western University College of Optometry in 2017, is a first-generation American whose parents emigrated from Peru. Her journey is a testament to her family’s hopes for a better future. “This award will be directly invested into the practice my husband and I are currently building,” stated Dr. Macco. She aims to strengthen her relationships with Community Health Alliance (CHA) and NV Hopes Clinic to serve the Latino community, breaking down language, cultural, and economic barriers to access primary eye care. Dr. Macco’s professional and personal goals are intertwined as she seeks to attain financial freedom and demonstrate to her peers the viability and importance of independent private practice in optometry.

Dr. Alyssa Putman , a 2012 graduate of Salus University, is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care and creating a supportive, educational work environment. She envisions a practice where patients feel the passion and commitment of her entire team. “This award is such an honor to continue Dr. Golden’s legacy of elevating those around him and helping others to climb the ladder of success,” said Dr. Putman. She plans to use the award to acquire new technology for diagnosing and treating patients, and to fund biannual free clinics for referred patients needing care. Her goal is to inspire her community by showcasing a workplace environment filled with excitement, passion, and commitment.