Thursday, 5/20 @Mcleod optical!

I began my optical career seven years ago, and I still remember the moment that first sparked my passion—watching how different ophthalmic lenses bend light in unique ways. I was instantly hooked. I soon enrolled at Middlesex, where I graduated with High Honors. During that time, I fell in love with learning and with the satisfaction of applying that knowledge to help my patients and improve their visual experiences. There’s something incredibly special about knowing that what we do as opticians helps people truly see and experience the world around them. I find great joy in helping low vision patients, handling unique optical conditions, and tackling creative repairs.

 I am dual licensed in Connecticut and Rhode Island and currently serve on the UOA Leadership Committee Planning Team, where I have the privilege of helping foster the next generation of opticianry leaders. After serving as president-elect for the past two years, I am honored to begin my term as president this year. 

Looking ahead, my hope for opticians in Rhode Island is to continue strengthening our community. I’m especially excited about the new apprenticeship program—it opens a valuable pathway for others to expand their knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and work toward licensure. This initiative offers tremendous opportunities for all of us to learn and grow together as professionals. 

Hailey Hicks-Dubois, President