Big Give Message from Dr. Kanai

As a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, School of Optometry in 2007, my journey has been a testament to the transformative power of education and mentorship. From my days as a student to becoming an Associate Clinical Professor, my commitment to resident education and professional development has remained steadfast.

Teaching optometrists about the intricate connections between systemic diseases and ocular health has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Through regional and international conferences, I’ve had the privilege to expand awareness and empower practitioners to deliver comprehensive care to their patients.

Beyond the confines of the classroom and clinic, my family has been my greatest source of joy and inspiration. My wife and two active children motivate me to strive for excellence in all aspects of my life.

I’ve had the privilege to embark on a life-changing journey to war-torn countries alongside my father and brother. Witnessing the resilience of individuals displaced by conflict and providing vision care to those in need reaffirmed my belief in the importance of empathy and collective action. Partnering with the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), we reached out to over 3,000 individuals and provided nearly 2,800 pairs of glasses. This experience ignited a deep sense of purpose and fueled our commitment to make a lasting impact.

It is with this same spirit of compassion and collaboration that I support the “Our Vision, Our Future” campaign. Inspired by our journey, my family and I established the Kanai Family Endowment for the Residency Program and the Kanai Family Fund for Residents. These initiatives aim to support the next generation of healthcare professionals and foster an environment where residents can thrive personally and professionally.

The Endowment seeks to provide sustainable financial support to enhance the competitiveness of the residency program, while the Fund will offer immediate assistance for residents’ educational and personal needs.

Rooted in our family’s values of compassion, generosity, and service, these initiatives aim to inspire others to join us in supporting future healthcare leaders. Together, we strive to build a legacy of compassion, excellence, and innovation in medical education and patient care, one step at a time.

– Kuniyoshi Kanai, OD, FAAO
Associate Clinical Professor and Director of Residencies, On-Campus Programs