The College of Optometrists

At the Council Meeting following yesterday’s Annual General Meeting, Kevin Lewis took over from David Cartwright as President of the College of Optometrists. Rob Hogan was elected as Vice President. Each will serve a term of two years. Speaking after taking over office, Kevin Lewis commented “I am delighted to  become President of the College at such an important time for the profession. The challenges and opportunities facing optometry resulting from the Health Bill and GOS Review are such that I know this is going to be an exciting two years for us all and I am looking forward to ensuring the College plays a full and appropriate part in shaping the way ahead for the profession”.      

                                                  

The results of recent College elections were announced at the Annual General Meeting. Of 11 vacancies on Council, ten were filled and six new Members have joined College Council: Dr Scott Mackie, Francesca Marchetti, Harinder Notay, Dr Kathryn Saunders, Claire Slade and Mary Ware. Three Council Members have retired from Council: Peter Charlesworth, Judith Morris and Frank Munro. In his speech to the AGM, outgoing President David Cartwright paid particular tribute to the wise words and advice he had received from Judith and Frank who, between them have given more than forty years of service to College Council. Both will be recognised at a Council Dinner in May.

 

The Council Meeting and AGM took place during Optometry Tomorrow 2006, the College’s annual Conference. The Conference, which visited Bristol this year, was bigger and better than ever attracting over 230 delegates and almost 40 exhibitors. Beth Elgood, Director of Member Services and Communications commented, “This has been the College’s most successful conference to date. We have received excellent feedback from delegates who enjoyed the high quality speakers, variety of topics discussed and mix of lecture and workshop format. In line with our approach of taking the Conference around the country, we are looking at venues in the north of the country for next year and will announce the date and venue for Optometry Tomorrow 2007 shortly”.