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Boynton Beach, FL (February 16, 2026)—As chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and glaucoma continue to disproportionately affect Hispanic/Latino and African American communities, Latinos en Optometry will host a timely panel discussion focused on the role of culturally responsive communication in improving eye-care outcomes.
The panel, titled Bridging Cultures in Chronic Disease Eye Care: Better Conversations, Better Outcomes, will take place Thursday, March 12, from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on the Vision Stage at Vision Expo 2026. The session is supported by Alcon and will bring together leaders from optometric education, professional organizations, and industry to explore how culture, trust, and communication influence patient understanding and follow-through in chronic disease care.
Ashley Mills, Chief Executive Officer of The Vision Council, will moderate the discussion. Featured panelists include:
• Sherrol Reynolds, OD, Professor of Optometry at Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry and President, National Optometric Foundation
• Glenda Aleman, OD, Board Member, Latinos en Optometry
• Chandra Mickles, OD, MS, FAAO, FSLS, Director, Professional Education & Development, U.S. Vision Care, Alcon
The discussion will examine how different cultural groups perceive chronic disease, address common misconceptions surrounding “silent” eye conditions, and share practical strategies for improving patient engagement, communication, and long-term adherence to care plans. Panelists will also discuss implications for optometric education and early-career practitioners, highlighting the importance of preparing the next generation of eye-care professionals to deliver culturally mindful care.
This free session is open to students, practicing professionals, and all members of the eye-care community interested in strengthening culturally responsive approaches to chronic disease management.
The panel, titled Bridging Cultures in Chronic Disease Eye Care: Better Conversations, Better Outcomes, will take place Thursday, March 12, from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on the Vision Stage at Vision Expo 2026. The session is supported by Alcon and will bring together leaders from optometric education, professional organizations, and industry to explore how culture, trust, and communication influence patient understanding and follow-through in chronic disease care.
Ashley Mills, Chief Executive Officer of The Vision Council, will moderate the discussion. Featured panelists include:
• Sherrol Reynolds, OD, Professor of Optometry at Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry and President, National Optometric Foundation
• Glenda Aleman, OD, Board Member, Latinos en Optometry
• Chandra Mickles, OD, MS, FAAO, FSLS, Director, Professional Education & Development, U.S. Vision Care, Alcon
The discussion will examine how different cultural groups perceive chronic disease, address common misconceptions surrounding “silent” eye conditions, and share practical strategies for improving patient engagement, communication, and long-term adherence to care plans. Panelists will also discuss implications for optometric education and early-career practitioners, highlighting the importance of preparing the next generation of eye-care professionals to deliver culturally mindful care.
This free session is open to students, practicing professionals, and all members of the eye-care community interested in strengthening culturally responsive approaches to chronic disease management.
