Two PCO Students Awarded VSP Vision Scholarships

Two students in the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) at Drexel University have been awarded the “Practice Excellence Scholarship” by VSP Vision, a leading provider of vision care and insurance services.

Janet Garcia ‘26OD and Katherine Franklin ‘26OD, were each chosen for the scholarships based on their membership in the PCO Private Practice Club, their commitment to entering independent practice of optometry and their academic achievement. The recipients were chosen by Doan Kwak, OD, Resident ‘13, FAAO, PCO assistant professor, Maria Armandi, OD ‘92, Resident ‘93, PCO assistant professor, Jeffrey Weaver, OD ‘85, MBA, MS, FAAO, FACHE, PCO professor.

“When I first saw the message, I couldn’t believe it. I felt incredibly grateful and honored. Receiving this scholarship means so much more than financial support; it’s a recognition of my effort, goals, and potential,” said Garcia, who found out she had received the scholarship in an email from one of her preceptors.

PCO’s Private Practice Club promotes private practice optometry by educating students on practice management, business principles, and financial strategies. The group’s events feature guest speakers and mentors, who provide perspectives about optometry after school and offer valuable networking opportunities.

The Practice Excellence Scholarship is awarded to Doctor of Optometry students at each institution who demonstrate excellence in both clinical and academic performance, as well as a commitment to enter the independent practice of optometry. Funded by VSP Vision and administered through the American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF), nearly $200,000 was awarded to 50 top-performing, fourth-year Doctor of Optometry students in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada.