NEW YORK— The Optometric Center of New York (OCNY), the foundation of the SUNY College of Optometry, held its 12th annual “Eyes on New York” gala at one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, The Plaza, on March 20. The event supports the OCNY’s mission of providing comprehensive vision care to people in need, as well as student scholarships and support for research at the College.

At the annual event, OCNY honored Angel Alvarez, the founder and CEO of ABB Optical Group, the nation’s leading distributor of optical products, including contact lenses, ophthalmic lenses, digitally surfaced lenses and eyewear. At the helm of ABB Optical for more than 25 years, Alvarez’s strategic direction for the company has led to the success of thousands of eyecare professionals nationwide.

The honorary co-chairs of the event were Dr. Nancy L. Zimpher, the current chancellor of the State University of New York, and Dr. Allan Barker, vice president of the board of directors for Optometry Cares – The AOA Foundation and president and CEO of Eyecarecenter, which operates more than 50 clinics throughout North Carolina and South Carolina.