Optical Prism April 2019 | Page 38

News VEE rolls out new destinations, experiences This year’s Vision Expo East at the Javits Center in New York City was packed full of inspirational events and invigorating experiences for eye care professionals The new destination experience, the BRIDGE, offered attendees a location that inspires learning, networking and socializing. Linking the Galleria and Underground pavilions to the Eyewear + Accessories pavilion, the BRIDGE featured notable speakers, comfortable seating options, music and complimentary refreshments for all. Additionally, the BRIDGE hosted Vision Expo’s inaugural EYE2EYE speaker series with award- winning artist Common as well as trends presentations and panels. At this year’s OptiCon @ Vision Expo, The National Federation of Opticianry Schools (NFOS) debuted the NFOS Hoya College Bowl. This fast-paced quiz competition tested 12 students from NFOS-member opticianry schools on their optical knowledge. Offering an exclusive look inside retail stores in several of New York City’s world-renowned neighborhoods, the guided retail store tours highlighted how eyewear retailers drive traffic to their stores, leverage the latest technology, maximize their store experience and set themselves apart. The new Career Zone provided some of the largest optical companies the opportunity to engage with students, young professionals and other eyecare 38 Optical Prism | April 2019 providers. Additionally, the optical industry’s top thought leaders shared their perspectives at the Pathways to Leadership in Corporate Optometry Panel. New education included the Myopia Track with various in-depth sessions including Managing Myopia: Possibilities and Probabilities, created by the Brien Holden Vision Institute. Additionally, three new