PINELLAS PARK, Fla.—Transitions Optical, Inc. has announced the members of its 2016 Diversity Advisory Board, who will help guide and strengthen ongoing efforts through the Transitions Cultural Connections initiative. The seven-member board consists of eye health, cultural and style experts for each of the largest and fastest-growing ethnic groups in the U.S.

Recognizing that there is an increasing focus on individual style—and that eyecare professionals play an integral role when it comes to educating patients about industry trends—Transitions Optical has added a new member to the Diversity Advisory Board for 2016: Diana Canto-Sims, OD.

“A seasoned optometrist and practice owner, Dr. Canto-Sims has more than 25 years of experience serving Hispanic and Millennial patients,” said Patience Cook, director, North America Marketing, Transitions Optical. “We are excited to have her join the board and provide insights into the style and cultural needs of these growing and increasingly influential groups.”

Returning Diversity Advisory Board members in 2016 include:
• Allert Brown-Gort – Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Work and the Economy
• Brian Chou, OD, FAAO – EyeLux Optometry, San Diego
• Mila Ferrer – Co-founder of Familias con Diabetes and blogger for Jaime, mi dulce guerrero
• Edwin Marshall, OD, MS, MPH – Professor Emeritus of Optometry and Former vice president for Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs, Indiana University
• Kirk Smick, OD, FAAO – Chief of Optometry Services, Clayton Eye Center, Atlanta
• Vincent K. Young, MD – Chairman, Division of Ophthalmology, Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia

Throughout the year, Diversity Advisory Board members will weigh in on the programs and resources available from Transitions Optical to support eyecare professionals in their efforts to better serve their culturally diverse patients. Resources are available free-of-charge to eyecare professionals at MyMulticulturalToolkit.com.