Shortly after fall break, first-year optometry students Alyssa S. and Kaitlyn C. approached Dr. Angel Novel Simmons, OD ’03, with a simple but powerful question: How can we give back to the UMSL community? Ideas quickly began to flow—everything from a winter coat drive to supporting a local school family. After thoughtful discussion, they landed on an … Continue reading Students Supporting Students – Through the Eyes of Community
A Word from the Dean
The College of Optometry has been hard at work since the previous EyeWire edition. I am pleased to announce that we completed a successful Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) site visit in November 2025. The UMSL College of Optometry culture was on full display as our students, staff, and faculty warmly welcomed the site … Continue reading A Word from the Dean
When Optometry and Love Collide
As an optometry student, every day is a journey—packed with discovery, growth, laughter, and yes, a few tears along the way. When this adventure begins, love is often the last thing on anyone’s mind; the focus is on becoming a spectacular optometrist, caring deeply for patients, and developing into the best version of oneself. Yet for a fortunate few, something extraordinary … Continue reading When Optometry and Love Collide
Founding Dean Dr. Jerry Christensen Visits New Optometry Academic Space Â
After a nationwide search, Dr. Jerry Christensen was appointed founding dean in 1980. Prior to his appointment, he served as Director of Graduate Programs and Chair of Physiological Optics at the University of Alabama School of Optometry. It was during his time at UAB that Dr. Christensen began preparing for a transition to deanship –which had been one of his aspirations - by … Continue reading Founding Dean Dr. Jerry Christensen Visits New Optometry Academic Space Â