The Hall was a spectacular backdrop for the occasion, which was extended to two ceremonies (morning and afternoon) to ensure that the unprecedented achievements of pre-registration trainees and higher qualification students who overcame the challenges of the pandemic to qualify in 2020 could be recognised and celebrated.
The College also welcomed five new Life Fellowships, and three Honorary Fellowships. They were awarded the distinction for their outstanding contribution to the profession or to the College. Seventeen members received a Fellowship by Portfolio in recognition of achievement in the workplace and outstanding contributions to furthering excellence in the practice of optometry.
The ceremony also included the presentation of the College’s prestigious Research Excellence Awards, which recognise the exceptional work of talented and committed individuals working in the fields of optometry, optics and vision science.
Welcoming new members to the College and the profession, Professor Leon Davies FCOptom, College President, said: ‘I hope that today will be one of the most memorable events in your professional life. It marks a key milestone in your lifelong journey of learning and professional development, and recognises and celebrates your resilience, commitment and talent through such testing times.
‘It is also the beginning of a new path, along which you are going to make a hugely positive difference to patients’ lives by helping them to see better and preserve their sight. So many opportunities await you, and we wish you long, happy and rewarding careers. Congratulations to you all.’