President's Corner - Dr. Chris Shiomos
Dear NYSOA Family,
When I look back at what sparked my lifelong passion for service, my mind instantly goes back to a busy weekend in my youth. I had volunteered to help out at my church Greek Cultural Festival. I was just a kid trying to lend a hand, but watching an entire community come together changed me completely. That weekend inspired me deeply and I have never looked back. In fact, that passion endures. About fifty years later, I am proud to still serve that very same festival today as one of its co-chairs.
What I realized over the decades is that learning to show up as a young child didn't just enrich my personal life; it directly unlocked incredible leadership opportunities later in my professional life.
My first real exposure to professional volunteering started small, driven simply by a desire to give back to my community. I remember going into my children’s school to educate the students on the importance of eye health, and later, hosting a local Girl Scout troop for a hands-on educational visit inside my office. Seeing the kids' eyes light up with curiosity was incredibly rewarding. That initial step laid the exact foundation I needed to step up, speak out, and ultimately lead within our association.
I know what many of you might be thinking right now because I have said it myself: "I just don't have the time." Between managing a practice, seeing patients, and balancing family life, our schedules are packed to the brim. But the truth is, we don't find time; we make time for the things that matter. When you possess a genuine passion for what you are volunteering for, the time somehow appears. The hours don't feel like a burden; they feel like an investment in a future we all share.
That exact spirit of passionate, collective impact is what fuels the NYSOA today.
Our profession faces new challenges and opportunities every day, and we cannot move forward without your unique voices. Right now, NYSOA has eleven diverse committees actively working to advance optometry across New York. Whether you are passionate about legislative advocacy, public health, or supporting the next generation of optometrists, there is a committee that fits your strengths and matches your passion.
I invite you to make the time today. Find your spark, help us shape the future of our profession, and join a team that makes a tangible difference. You never know what incredible professional doors a simple committee sign-up might open for you decades down the road.
Ready to make your mark? It only takes a minute to find the right fit. Volunteer now with this link to the Committee Signup Form
Thank you for your dedication, your expertise, and your ongoing commitment to our association. Together, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
Looking forward with clear vision,
Dr. Chris Shiomos
President@nysoa.org
