Eye Recommend is launching the east's rendition of its awards program, The Prisms, and nominations are now open.

For the first time, we are formally recognizing the individuals across our network whose leadership, patient care, and dedication are shaping what independent optometry looks like today. Winners will be celebrated at NTE East this October.

The Categories

There are four awards up for nomination:

Trailblazer: For optometrists under 40 who are already making their mark on the profession and the practices they work in.
Humanitarian of the Year: For optometrists whose commitment to service goes beyond the walls of their practice and into their communities.
Patient Care Excellence: For non-optometrist team members who show up for patients every single day and consistently go above and beyond.
Thought Leader of the Year: For optometrists, operations leaders, and managers who are pushing the profession forward with new thinking and bold ideas.

Who Can Be Nominated

Nominations are currently open to members and staff in Ontario, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island. All nominees must be active members of the Eye Recommend network through October 24, 2026.

If your practice is based in an western province, nominations for NTE West will open at a later date.

Key Dates

Nomination deadline: Septemeber 18, 2026
Nominees announced: Early October 2026
Winners celebrated: Final evening of NTE East, October 24, 2026

How to Nominate

Think about the people in your network who deserve to be recognized. A colleague who leads with care. A team member who never cuts corners with patients. An optometrist who gives back. Someone whose ideas are changing how your practice runs.

Put their name forward before September 18.

Nominate a Peer Today!

The Prisms Are Here: Everything You Need to Know

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