International Optician of the Year Award Finalists

The innovative IOA SILMO International Optician of the Year Award recognizes the importance of the optician in the optical business and their role in the choice of optimum products for their clientele. The award is presented by the International Opticians Association (IOA), an international body dedicated to the enhancement and development of the profession worldwide, in partnership with SILMO. The finalists will be asked to fill in a dossier , which will be scrutinized by an international panel made up of industry experts. The winner will be announced during SILMO in Paris, France.

More About the OWA Member Finalists

Cira Collins is an educator, mentor, and self-described “opticianry futurist” who brings an infectious sense of possibility to the profession. Combining scientific curiosity, emerging technology, and business insight, she challenges opticians to think not only about where the profession is today, but where it might go next. Through leadership, education, and mentorship -- including her work with the American Board of Opticianry and GoodVision USA -- Cira has inspired countless professionals to embrace innovation while maintaining the highest standards of patient care. Her vision for the future of opticianry continues to influence the profession internationally.

Karen Michaelson has nearly five decades in eye care and continues to demonstrate how opticianry can evolve, connect, and respond to emerging areas of need. Her work through Eyes on Dementia has brought vision care, dementia awareness, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive change into an important and growing professional conversation. A Dementia Friends Champion Team Trainer, volunteer, professional leader, and advocate, Karen also supports Special Olympics Minnesota Healthy Athletes and serves in leadership roles across the profession. Recognized by Vision Monday among its Most Influential Women of 2026, Karen’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to education, compassion, and professional service.