Eye Recommend is launching its first-ever industry awards program, The Prisms, and nominations are now open.
For the first time, we are formally recognizing the individuals across our network whose leadership, patient care, and dedication are shaping what independent optometry looks like today. Winners will be celebrated at NTE West this May.
The Categories
There are four awards up for nomination:
- Trailblazer: For optometrists under 40 who are already making their mark on the profession and the practices they work in.
- Humanitarian of the Year: For optometrists whose commitment to service goes beyond the walls of their practice and into their communities.
- Patient Care Excellence: For non-optometrist team members who show up for patients every single day and consistently go above and beyond.
- Thought Leader of the Year: For optometrists, operations leaders, and managers who are pushing the profession forward with new thinking and bold ideas.
Who Can Be Nominated
Nominations are currently open to members and staff in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Yukon. All nominees must be active members of the Eye Recommend network through May 23, 2026.
If your practice is based in an eastern province, nominations for NTE East will open at a later date.
Key Dates
Nomination deadline: April 13, 2026
Nominees announced: Early May 2026
Winners celebrated: Final evening of NTE West, May 21–23, 2026
How to Nominate
Think about the people in your network who deserve to be recognized. A colleague who leads with care. A team member who never cuts corners with patients. An optometrist who gives back. Someone whose ideas are changing how your practice runs.
Put their name forward before April 13.