NEW YORK—SUNY College of Optometry Foundation announced it will host the inaugural Advancing Vision Summit: The Intersection of AI, Eye Care, and Public Health on September 25, 2026, at CURE in New York City. Presented in celebration of the Foundation’s 70th Anniversary, the free, day-long event will bring together leaders in healthcare, technology, and public health to explore how artificial intelligence, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration are shaping the future of eyecare and public health. The Summit will feature keynote speaker David C. Rhew, MD, global chief medical officer and vice president of healthcare at Microsoft, along with presentations from nationally recognized experts across healthcare, research and industry.
The Summit is expected to welcome over 200 clinicians, public health leaders, and community partners for a day of discussion on topics including artificial intelligence in healthcare, the integration of eyecare into community health settings, population health, women’s health, and myopia management. Attendance is free, with the support of sponsors including Jobson Optical Group, CooperVision and EssilorLuxottica.
“For 70 years, SUNY College of Optometry Foundation has advanced initiatives that strengthen and support patient care, education and research,” said Dawn Rigney, executive director of the SUNY College of Optometry Foundation Board. “The Advancing Vision Summit reflects our commitment to bringing together leaders from across disciplines to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and explore innovative solutions that improve eye health and expand access to care.”
Founded in 1956, the SUNY College of Optometry Foundation supports the College’s mission to advance eye health through education, research and patient care. The Advancing Vision Summit builds on that legacy by creating a forum where experts can collaborate to improve vision and overall health for communities in New York and beyond.
Registration for the free event is now open.
