Research Grants (College of Optometrists in Vision Development)

Research Grants (College of Optometrists in Vision Development) is sponsored by College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD). These grants support research related to oculomotor, binocular vision, visual information processing, learning-related vision problems, and vision therapy. Funds can be used to initiate new research or support continuing active research programs.

Each year, OVDRA honors individuals who exemplify excellence, innovation, and commitment to vision development and rehabilitation. Each year the honorees represent a wide range of expertise and achievements that continue to inspire the profession. Many of the awards developed out of the foundations of our professional development honoring the most influential and exemplary members and professionals, we encourage you to learn more below.

Presented at the Awards Luncheon yearly at the OVDRA Annual Meeting. ### A. M.

Skeffington Award Presented to the OVDRA Fellow who has made outstanding contributions to the optometric literature in the areas of vision therapy and vision development. ### G. N.

Getman Award Presented to a developmentally-oriented optometrist with clinical expertise and application in office structure and professional activity. ### The Beacon Award The Beacon Award was created to recognize those whose steady guidance, generosity of spirit, and belief in others have illuminated paths, shaped careers, and quietly transformed lives.

### COVT of the Year Award Given to the COVT who has shown dedication to behavioral optometry and has demonstrated understanding and support for patients and their families. ### President's Award For outstanding contribution to the organization, selected by the President of OVDRA.

### Article of the Year Award Presented to the author(s) whose original paper has been judged the best one published in the OVDRA journal _Vision Development & Rehabilitation_ the previous year. ### Making Vision Therapy Visible Award For outstanding contributions to public awareness of vision therapy and developmental vision care.

### Distinguished Service & Dedicated Service Awards Special awards given to OVDRA members who have provided exceptional service to the Board of Directors and Committees. ### Student Excellence in Vision Therapy Award Presented to a graduating senior at each North American optometry school to strengthen the future of developmental and behavioral optometry.

Recognizes a Student Member who demonstrates strong interest and clinical skills in vision therapy. ### Rising Member of the Year Award Presented to an OVDRA Member who has shown strong dedication to the mission of OVDRA. Their work demonstrates initiative in the field of optometric vision therapy and rehabilitation.

Member of 3 to 10 consecutive years. ### OVDRA Research Grant Given to optometrists, educators, and vision scientists to support research in oculomotor, binocular vision, visual information processing, and vision therapy. ### BSK-COVD Research Grant Supports faculty and resident research at accredited schools of optometry.

Sponsored by Beta Sigma Kappa and COVD. ### Annual Meeting Travel Grants Grants that aid student and resident members in attending the OVDRA Annual Meeting. ### Kaplan Speakers Bureau Thanks to a donation from the Kaplan Estate, this program funds additional speakers at U.S. optometry schools through the _Tour de Optometry_.

### Vision Grant The Vision Grant is to ensure the development of professionals in vision therapy and binocular vision, with the award presented annually to a 4th year student who is dedicated to taking the next step into their career in vision therapy. This grant is presented each year at the OVDRA Annual Meeting during the awards lunch. Winners do not need to be present to receive the grant.