Kendall Krug, OD, an optometrist in private practice in Hays, Kan. (c), accepting Envision’s Visionary Award. Michael J. Monteferrante (l), president and CEO, Envision with Sal Giunta (r), presidential Medal of Honor recipient and contractor to Envision assisting with government and military affairs.
WICHITA, Kan.—At its eighth annual “Evening with Envision” gala held at the Hyatt Regency Wichita on Oct. 23, Envision raised more than $322,000 in support of its mission to improve the quality of life and provide inspiration for the blind and visually impaired through employment, outreach, rehabilitation, education and research.

The evening’s proceeds will support a multitude of ongoing programs and services that Envision offers, including: research into ways to better confront the challenges associated with blindness and low vision; education of the medical and academic professionals dedicated to helping those facing such challenges; rehabilitation and training to better enable those who are blind and visually impaired to capitalize on the latest advances; and a host of programs designed to give those who are blind and visually impaired the skills and experiences they need to live fulfilling lives.

Envision presented awards to individuals and organizations whose actions throughout the global community demonstrate a shared commitment to improving lives and providing new opportunities for those who are blind and visually impaired. This year’s honorees included:

Brooke Fox, recipient of the Envision’s Everyday Hero Award, which honors an individual or company that is making a significant difference in the blind/visually impaired community. Fox is an award-winning Brooklyn, N.Y.-based performer who, despite being incredibly near-sighted and light-sensitive as a result of being born with albinism, has embarked on her own successful musical career. She also serves as a president of Visionary Media, a New York-based organization that provides training, resources, and opportunity for blind and visually impaired musicians and media professionals, removing barriers to their professional success.

Len Hudson, who received the 2015 Envision Volunteer Award, presented to an individual who exemplifies altruism through contributions of service, time and leadership. Hudson helped launch and continues to lead Envision’s annual golf clinic, a no-cost summer program which enables blind and visually impaired youth and adults to learn to play golf, paired with a skilled golfer.

Dee Rolph, one of two recipients of Envision’s 2015 Spirit of Philanthropy Award, which honors individuals, organizations or families whose gifts, donations and support have made a significant impact on Envision’s cause. Rolph is a prominent community advocate who supports a multitude of local causes.

Valley Offset Printing, Inc., also honored with a 2015 Spirit of Philanthropy Award. Vice president Travis Bryant accepted the award for the Valley Center, Kan.-based business, which has supported Envision for many years.

Jeri Hile, who received the 2015 Envision TVI Award, presented to a teacher of the visually impaired who is involved with Envision through volunteer work, mentoring or advocacy and is nominated by students and peers. Hile is a TVI in the Shawnee Mission School Distriction (USD 512) in Kansas.

Kendall Krug, OD of Hays, Kan., who received the Envision Visionary Award which honors a doctor, health care professional or organization who values vision rehabilitation as a process to help those living with vision loss achieve greater independence.