As I embark on this exciting journey as the school’s new dean, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the warm welcome I have received from so many of you. From day one, it has been clear that this is not just a school – it’s a vibrant, passionate community committed to excellence in education, research, and patient care. I can’t wait to meet more of you and hear about the experiences that make Berkeley such a special place. With your support during Big Give and beyond, I am confident we will continue to lead our profession forward.
At the heart of everything we do is our commitment to our students and the patients we serve. Our students are the future of optometry, and with your generosity, we can ensure they have the resources, mentorship, and hands-on training they need to thrive. Beyond the classroom, our faculty and alumni are shaping the future of eye care – advancing research, influencing policy, and delivering life-changing vision care to those in need.
That’s why Big Give is such an important moment. It’s our opportunity to come together and invest in the future of our school and profession. Many have shared with me how consistently our community rallies during Big Give, demonstrating the collective power of our small but dedicated network. Your support strengthens our ability to innovate, inspire, and ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed. And the best part? A gift to the Annual Fund is truly the gift that keeps on giving – providing ongoing support where it’s needed most, year after year.
I invite you to join me in making a gift during Big Give. Together, we can push the boundaries of what’s possible in optometry and vision science.
I look forward to meeting you and celebrating the incredible future we are building together!
With Gratitude,
Sharon Bentley
Dean and Professor
Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science