ABO NCLE

Our Board came together for thoughtful discussion, industry insight, and important conversations about the work ahead.

We’re grateful for the time, expertise, and perspectives each member brings to the table and for a shared commitment to supporting certification and strengthening the optical profession.

Thank you to our Board members, leadership, and guests for a successful meeting.

We are thrilled to celebrate all of this year’s incredible finalists—and especially proud to see an ABO master, Cira Collins, a valued director of the ABO-NCLE Board of Directors, as a finalist for International Optician of the Year! 🎉

Anyone who knows Cira knows just how well deserved this recognition is. Her warmth, leadership, and genuine dedication to the optical profession—both here at home and around the world—have earned the respect and appreciation of so many.

We are also delighted to congratulate Karen Sokierka Michaelson, another strong and accomplished ABO certified optician close to home whose leadership and contributions to the profession are deeply valued and recognized!

We are so proud of you, Cira, and thrilled to celebrate this recognition with you! Please join us in congratulating Cira, Karen, and all of this year’s finalists! 🎉🎉🎉

Congratulations to the following finalists in the IOA International Optician of the Year Award. From left to right, top to bottom:

Cira Collins (United States of America)
Jessica Gowing (United Kingdom)
Martyn Howlett (United Kingdom)
Karen Michaelson (United States of America)
Janine Santiago (Canada)
Steve Stenersen (New Zealand)

We will be posting individual bios over the next few weeks. Congratulations!

Looking to expand your knowledge in specialty contact lenses? Contact Lens Society of America offers educational resources, publications, and professional development opportunities for contact lens professionals.

ABO & NCLE is thankful to collaborate with organizations that support lifelong learning and professional excellence.

We are pleased to share that the latest issue of EyeWitness is now available.

This issue focuses on soft contact lenses from every angle: clinical, historical, practical, and patient facing.

Whether you are troubleshooting dropout, navigating a challenging fit, or looking to sharpen your team's approach to contact lens conversations, there is something here for you.

Access your complimentary issue at

https://online.flippingbook.com/link/617980/



ABO & NCLE may share external resources for general awareness. These resources are not endorsements and do not impact certification, recertification, or exam outcomes. Please review independently.

2026 Spring - Soft Contact Lenses Explore soft contact lens topics with CLSA

Happy 4th of July from ABO-NCLE. As the United States marks 250 years, we reflect on the spirit of service, learning, and community that helps move us forward together.

Please note: Our office is closed today, Friday, July 3, as our team takes time to celebrate with family, friends, and our communities. We will reopen on Monday, July 6.

On Tuesday, June 30, 125 candidates registered and sat down to take their ABO-NCLE exams, and that is something worth celebrating.

Each registration represents time, preparation, commitment, and a meaningful step forward in the optical profession.

To every candidate who showed up for their professional journey: we see you, we celebrate you, and we are cheering you on.

After two full weeks of travel, conferences, conversations, and connection, we are feeling grateful.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at United Opticians Association Leadership Conference. It was wonderful seeing familiar faces, meeting new professionals, and continuing important conversations about education, certification, and the future of opticianry.

We are thankful for this community and excited for what is ahead.

United Opticians Association

Attending Optometry's Meeting this week? Come visit ABO-NCLE & United Opticians Association at Booth 836. We’d love to connect, say hello, and talk about certification, continuing education, and supporting the Optical profession.

ABO & NCLE President Sherrie Lee Young, ABOC, NCLEM, FCLSA is not only a leader in the advanced specialty contact lens field — she is also a world champion in the arena.

Whether in the clinic or in competition, Sherrie demonstrates the qualities that define exceptional leadership and professionalism: discipline, precision, preparation, resilience, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.

Her success in both fields reflects the same dedication required to lead well, perform under pressure, uphold the highest standards, and inspire others through example.

Sherrie’s achievements remind us that true champions are not defined by one title or one accomplishment, but by the character, focus, and commitment they bring to every role they serve.

Please join us in congratulating Sherrie Lee Young, ABOC, NCLEM, FCLSA on this incredible achievement!

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