Twenty-one years. More than 750 women. From thousands of submissions received by its readers in that span of time, Vision Monday’s editors have been making very tough choices to identify and share the stories of just some of the women across the eyewear and eyecare field making a difference, creating impact, changing the game and influencing others in the work that they do.

Yes, a few women have appeared as a VM Most Influential Woman more than once—in some cases, their roles or companies changed. They started in one place and are now contributing in another.

The majority often make contributions within a company, and those can be smaller ones or global groups, but the work that they do ripples widely. Some are honored for forging a path via their own unique practice or specialty, or they dedicate time to educating others or being brave enough to start their own business and make an impact that way. Still others have their influence felt by reaching the disadvantaged or helping those with limited access.

It’s gratifying to shine a light on people who are pursuing so many types of pathways to develop the profession, stretch the boundaries of business, create their own professional identities or make meaningful contributions to groups and organizations. They are executives, researchers, academics, trainers and teachers, mentors and entrepreneurs.

When we hear them discuss what they do, what they’re hoping to achieve, how they’ve overcome and persevered, it inspires us, too. My favorite part of the VM profiles are the “She Says...” quotes from each of the women. Read through them and you can feel the value of mentorship and support, encouragement, commitment, confidence and bravery.

maxelrad@jobson.com