Several members of the University of Houston College of Optometry community received top honors at the 2025 Texas Optometric Association Summit, recognizing their dedication to advancing eye care and the profession.
Marcus Gonzales, OD, FAAO - Optometrist of the Year - Dallas, Texas Clinical Associate Professor Clinic Director, Cedar Springs Eye Clinic
The Texas Optometric Association named Dr. Marcus Gonzales Optometrist of the Year for his commitment to patient care, education, and advocacy. A 2006 UHCO graduate, Gonzales completed an ocular disease residency at Cedar Springs Eye Clinic, where he now serves as clinic director. He has devoted his career to treating underserved populations and advancing clinical education.
Gonzales reflected on this honor, expressing gratitude for the profession and his role in shaping its future.
"I am deeply grateful and humbled to receive this prestigious award," Gonzales said. "During my second year of optometry school, I attended my first Texas Optometric Association convention and was inspired by the sacrifices of those in leadership. I dreamed of one day making my impact on the profession. Today, I am blessed to serve financially underserved patients, educate future optometrists, and work alongside colleagues who are some of my closest friends."
Janet Garza, OD, FAAO, ABO - Mollie Armstrong Leadership Award - Houston, Texas Clinical Associate Professor Primary Care Optometry Residency Coordinator
Dr. Janet Garza received the Mollie Armstrong Leadership Award, which honors Texas Optometric Association members with at least 10 years of practice who have made significant contributions to the visual welfare of Texans through public outreach, education, research, and community service.
A clinical associate professor and former clinical director of the UH Eye Center-Heights, Garza plays a key role in educating future optometrists. She teaches courses, serves as a course master for the Medical Procedures Lab, and works closely with students and patients in the clinic. Passionate about clinical excellence and lifelong learning, she remains dedicated to advancing optometry as a vital component of public health.
"I feel honored to receive the Mollie Armstrong Award in recognition of service to the visual welfare of Texans," Garza said. "A core value I've always held is the responsibility to give back if ever I find myself in the position to do so. It's been a privilege to work with like-minded individuals, community groups, and organizations that share the same mission. I am excited to keep going!"
Garza is a Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry and a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, and a certified Optometric Glaucoma Specialist in Texas. She actively participates in professional organizations, including the Harris County Optometric Association, the Texas Optometric Association, Prevent Blindness Texas, the American Public Health Association, and the American Academy of Optometry.
Several members of the University of Houston College of Optometry community received top honors at the 2025 Texas Optometric Association Summit.
Additionally, the Texas Optometric Association recognized a few of the college's alumni and friends for their outstanding contributions to the profession:
- Joe DeLoach, OD, FAAO - William D. Pittman Award
Dallas, Texas
Board Member, Foundation for Education and Research in Vision (FERV) - Samantha Reynolds, OD - Young Optometrist of the Year
Fort Worth, Texas
UH College of Optometry, Class of 2019 - Kendall Stout, OD - Public Service Award
Grand Prairie, Texas
UH College of Optometry, Class of 2015
Dean Michael Twa emphasized the college's ongoing influence on the profession, stating, "The University of Houston College of Optometry proudly continues to advance the profession through its faculty, alumni, and students, further strengthening the field of optometry in Texas and beyond."