Optical Prism March 2019 | Page 38

Dr. Mark Rea, professor of architecture and cognitive sciences at The Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y., talks about the science behind light sensitivity. Transitions shows why it’s “Light Years Ahead” at Academy By Denis Langlois More than 915 industry professionals from 31 countries in North and South America participated in the 23nd annual Transitions Academy. named by TIME magazine as one of the best inventions of 2018. That launch will be followed in the fall by the release in Canada of Transitions Signature Gen 8 lenses. The invitation-only event, themed “Light Years Ahead,” took place Feb. 4 This year’s Academy also included to 5 at the J.W. Marriott Grande Lakes various workshops, general sessions in Orlando, Florida. and presentations, along with a key- One of the highlights of this year’s event note presentation, called The Five Second Rule, by Mel Robbins on was the announcement by Chrystel Barranger, president of Essilor Pho- how ECPs can increase productivity, tochromics and Transitions Optical, collaboration and engagement. on how the brand will be innovating to The event wrapped up with the 2018 bring light management solutions to Transitions Innovation Awards and even more wearers in 2019. Celebration at Mango’s Tropical It will achieve that goal by launching Cafe. Canadian optician Sheena Taff of Roberts & Brown Opticians in the first half of this year the new in Vancouver, B.C., won the best in OASYS ACUVUE with Transitions marketing award, while Costco contact lenses, which have been Optical received the Canadian Retailer of the Year honour. 36 OPTICAL PRISM | March 2019 Audience members participate in a retail innovation workshop at Transitions Academy. Other winners were: Weaver Eye Associates of York, Pa., Eyecare Prac- tice of the Year; Dr. Amanda Rights of Blue Ridge Vision in Boone, N.C., 2018 Transitions Brand Ambassador; National Vision Inc., U.S. Retailer of the Year; and Professional Eye Care Associates of America, Best in Training.