Our Optometrists

Dr. Rick Billings is a board-certified optometric physician who has served the Sarasota community since 1984. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in computer communication science from the University of Michigan, and his Doctor of Optometry degree from Ferris State College of Optometry in Big Rapids, Michigan. He is a past member of the National Society to Prevent Blindness, Florida Optometric Association and American Optometric Association.

A career in optometry came naturally as it combined two of his passions: mathematics and healthcare. When growing up, Dr. Billings wanted to have a job where he could help people. He now says that’s his favorite part of the job.

Dr. Billings lives in Nokomis, where he raised two children; Beau who is working towards a medical degree in Ophthalmology and Elizabeth who is studying to become a physical therapist. For years, he dedicated his time to coaching basketball and flag football at the local YMCA. He also coached little league baseball. Outside of work you can find Dr. Billings exercising twice daily and jetting off on adventure vacations that include scuba diving, hiking, skiing and archaeology.

Location served: Sarasota

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Len Brown is a board-certified optometric physician who has been practicing in Southwest Florida for over 40 years, providing unsurpassed eye care to patients in Lee and Collier counties. At Center For Sight, he offers primary eye care services including vision testing, contact lens fittings, eyewear prescriptions, pre and post-operative eye care and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.

Dr. Brown earned his Doctor of Optometry degree at Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee. He is currently a member and past President of the Southwest Florida Optometric Association, Logistics Chairman for the SECO International Education Committee of the Southern Council of Optometrists, and previous Examiner for the Florida State Board of Optometry.

Within his local community, Dr. Brown is a member and past President of the Rotary Club of Cape Coral, has served as the chairman of the Caloosa District of the Southwest Florida Council of the Boy Scouts of America and currently serves on the board of directors of the Fort Myers Christian School. His interests include boating, flying, motorcycling and drag racing.

Dr. Brown is currently accepting new patients at the Fort Myers and Naples locations of Center for Sight.

Locations served: Naples, Brantley Rd.

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Daniel Hadland is a board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care services to Center for Sight patients. Dr. Hadland has extensive training in ocular disease, vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, specialty contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. He is experienced in providing pre and post-operative care for LASIK, cataract, and corneal transplant surgery patients. Prior to joining Center For Sight, Dr. Hadland worked in a high volume practice, diagnosing and treating ocular diseases such as diabetes, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Dr. Hadland earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Florida State University and his Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry. He is a member of the American Optometric Association and the Florida Optometric Association.

Dr. Hadland lives in Lakewood Ranch with his wife, Charlotte, and his two dogs, Maggie and Layla. In his free time he enjoys fishing, visiting the beach, taking trips to Disney and spending time with his family.

Location served: Pelican Plaza

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Melissa Hammond is a board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care services to Center for Sight patients, including vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, specialty contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. She also provides pre-operative testing and post-operative care for cataract and LASIK surgery patients.

Dr. Hammond decided to become an optometrist when she was 10 years old and was fitted with her first pair of contact lenses. Her family optometrist encouraged her to pursue a career in optometry. After graduating from Moses Brown School in Providence, Rhode Island, she moved to Deland, Florida to attend the Honors Program at Stetson University. She continued her undergraduate studies at the University of South Florida in Tampa. She was granted a rare offer of early admission to the College of Optometry at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Vision Science and graduated with Honors with a Doctor of Optometry degree. She received the Vision Care Inc. Award for Clinical Excellence in 2002.

After seven years of private practice in Sarasota, Dr. Hammond joined the Center for Sight team. She is active in the community as well as in the profession of optometry. She is a past president of the Rotary Club of East Manatee, a past president of the Manasota Optometric Society, and a business partner of Gene Witt Elementary School in East Manatee. Dr. Hammond is a member of the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association, and the Manasota Optometric Society.

Dr. Hammond has a son and a daughter. They enjoy frequent trips to Disney World, where Dr. Hammond has completed numerous half marathons. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her children, baking, crafts, and traveling.

Location served: University Park

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Erin Hardie is a residency-trained and board-certified optometric physician specializing in numerous aspects of medical and refractive optometry at Center For Sight. She actively works in conjunction with the surgical teams, treating a wide range of conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease.

Dr. Hardie performs vision testing, specialty contact lens fitting, pediatric exams as well as the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Her services also include pre- and post-operative care for LASIK, cataract, and corneal transplant patients.

A true Florida native and graduate of Venice High School, Dr. Hardie returned to the Sarasota area after finishing her training at the prestigious University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry. She completed her undergraduate education at Auburn University with a major in Biomedical Science, graduating Summa Cum Laude. While at Auburn, Dr. Hardie received the Dean’s medal for high achievement in her field of study. She also completed a residency in Ocular Disease at Vision America of Birmingham, where she gained expertise in oculoplastics, vitreo-retinal, and corneal disease.

Dr. Hardie lives in Venice with her husband, Sam, and their two daughters, Emory and Georgia Kate. She enjoys all outdoor activities, exercising, and participating in church and family gatherings. Dr. Hardie has participated in optometric mission trips to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Belize.

Location served: North Port

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Andrew Hart is an optometric physician who provides a wide variety of primary care services to Center For Sight patients.

Since 1993, Dr. Hart has been practicing optometry in Fort Myers. He has a special interest in treating and managing glaucoma, is an expert in optics and especially enjoys fitting contact lenses. He monitors and treats most eye diseases, refractive and binocular problems, and he can be trusted to refer you to the proper specialist if needed. Dr. Hart has worked in large surgical ophthalmology practices and has extensive experience co-managing patients before and after lid, refractive, corneal, cataract, glaucoma and retinal surgery.

Dr. Hart received his Doctor of Optometry Degree from Indiana University School of Optometry. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada. He completed internships at the Vision Institute in Toronto, IU’s Clinic in Indianapolis, and the Eye Foundation in Orlando.

Dr. Hart is an active member of the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association and the Southwest Florida Optometric Association.

Originally from Sault Ste. Marie Ontario, Canada, Dr. Hart lives in Fort Myers with his wife, Dr. Brenda Hart, and their two children. In his spare time he enjoys skiing and biking and boating.

Location served: Metropolis Ave.

Dr. Brenda Hart is an optometric physician who provides a wide variety of primary care services to Center For Sight patients.

Since 1993, Dr. Hart has been providing exceptional eye care to the Fort Myers community. She monitors and treats lid disease, eye infections and inflammation, corneal problems, cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma as well as many visual problems such as blurred vision, double vision and visual field loss. Dr. Hart fits glasses and contact lenses with care and precision.

Dr. Hart received her Doctor of Optometry from the University of Houston College of Optometry. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of South Florida. Her internships were completed at the Eye Foundation in Orlando and the Colorado Optometric Center in Denver.

Dr. Hart is an active member of the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association and the Southwest Florida Optometric Association.

Dr. Hart loves spending time with family. She and her husband, Dr. Andrew Hart, have two grown children, a dog and a large extended family. They have been active members in the community since moving to Fort Myers in 1993. In her spare time, she likes to hike, read and garden.

Location served: Metropolis Ave.

Dr. George Hurwitz is an optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care services to Center for Sight patients. Dr. Hurwitz has extensive training in ocular disease, vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, specialty contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. He is involved in pre-operative testing and follow-up care for cataract surgery, corneal transplant, and laser vision correction patients.

Dr. Hurwitz earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from La Salle University in Philadelphia, PA, and his Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry in Davie, FL. He is a member of the American Optometric Association and the Florida Optometric Association.

Dr. Hurwitz lives in Venice where he enjoys his outdoor hobbies of basketball, tennis, and golf.

Location served: North Port

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Johnson completed her undergraduate studies at The University of South Florida, Tampa and received her Doctor of Optometry in 2008 from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, where she graduated with honors.

Her Clinical Internships include Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute, Braverman Eye Center, Pediatric Ophthalmology Consultants of Plantation, and The Eye Institute of Nova Southeastern University.

Dr. Johnson has been practicing optometry for over ten years. She began her practice at Tallman Eye Institute, in Lawrence, Massachusetts. After relocating to Florida in 2014, Dr. Johnson practiced at Collins Vision. She then went on to establish her own optometrist office. In addition to Johnson Eyecare, Dr. Johnson continues to devote her time one day per week working at Bonita Springs Lions Club Eye Clinic, a non-profit foundation that provides eye care to low-income patients with no medical insurance.

Dr. Sarah Johnson was born in Costa Rica and was raised in both Costa Rica and Fort Myers, Florida. As a result, not only is Dr. Johnson fluent in both English and Spanish, but Dr. Johnson experienced a multi-cultural upbringing. Dr. Johnson is grateful to have the opportunity to be able to provide her knowledge, skills and experience to the Fort Myers community and surrounding areas.

Location served: San Carlos Blvd.

Dr. Todd Lang is a board-certified optometric physician who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing eye diseases including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and more. Dr. Lang performs pre-operative testing and post-operative care for cataract surgery, corneal transplant, and laser vision correction patients.

In addition, Dr. Lang is currently the only optometrist who is board-certified in Lifestyle Medicine in the United States. Lifestyle Medicine can prevent, treat, and reverse chronic disease. Having earned this certification, Dr. Lang has attained a high level of education on how proper nutrition, physical activity, and stress management can be used as a tool to combat chronic disease. Dr. Lang’s unique expertise aids him in achieving his goal of helping his patients see better, live better, and live longer.

Dr. Lang has over 30 years of clinical practice experience and has been serving the Punta Gorda area since 1991, when he opened his private practice, formerly known as Bayside Eye Center. Bayside Eye Center became a trusted fixture in the Punta Gorda community, and in 2020, Dr. Lang partnered with Center For Sight to offer his patients even greater access to the finest cataract, LASIK, glaucoma, cornea, retina, and oculo-plastics specialists in Southwest Florida.

Dr. Lang has built his practice upon a firm commitment to providing world-class eye care and building respectful relationships with his patients. He is a multi-year winner in the Charlotte Sun Readers’ Choice Awards, where he has been voted “Best Optometrist” in Punta Gorda. Dr. Lang is also LASIK-certified in co-management, a Diplomat of the American Board of Optometry, a Diplomat of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, a Member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, and a Member of the American
Optometric Association.

In his free time, Dr. Lang enjoys endurance fitness, having completed the New York City Marathon twice, the inaugural Disney (FL) Marathon, as well as the Portland (OR) Marathon. More recently, he developed an interest in biking and has completed the Horrible Hundred mile event in Clermont, FL, twice. He also enjoys reading, singing, and snow skiing. Above all else, he loves spending time with his wife of 32 years and their daughter. They especially enjoy celebrating that their birthdays are on the same day!

Location served: Punta Gorda

Awards & Honors

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Dr. James Lenhart is a residency-trained and board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide range of optometric care to Center For Sight patients. Dr. Lenhart has been offering primary eye care services within Southwest Florida for many years.

His services include vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, contact lenses, and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders such as glaucoma, dry eye, and macular degeneration. In addition, he is involved in pre-operative testing and follow-up care for cataract surgery, corneal transplant, and laser vision correction patients.

A graduate of Wittenberg University in Ohio with a Bachelor of Science degree, Dr. Lenhart went on to earn his Doctor of Optometry degree at the New England College of Optometry in Boston. Dr. Lenhart then completed a residency in primary eye care and ocular disease at Edith Nourse Rodgers VA Hospital in Bedford, Massachusetts. He has also served on numerous teams conducting FDA clinical studies on dry eye syndrome, allergies, and glaucoma.

Dr. Lenhart was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has been practicing in Florida since 2002. He lives in Sarasota with his wife, Amy, and their two children, Ella and Jack. Dr. Lenhart enjoys golf, tennis, snow skiing, and writing music.

Locations served: Sarasota, Venice

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Lori Long is a board-certified optometric physician who has been practicing optometry in Florida for over 20 years. She has recently returned to practice at Center For Sight, where she began her career. Dr. Long received her Bachelor of Arts and Masters in Education degrees from Millersville University in Pennsylvania, and earned her Doctorate in Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. In addition, Dr. Long completed residency training in ocular diseases at the Lebanon Veterans Administration Medical Center in Pennsylvania, where she was the only optometry resident working alongside eight ophthalmology residents.

Dr. Long is a member of the American Optometric Association and the Florida Optometric Association. Passionate about mission work, she is also a member of Volunteers of Optometry Serving Humanity.

Dr. Long lives in Sarasota with her husband, Steve, and daughter, Risdon. She enjoys reading, cooking, running and yoga.

Location served: Englewood

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Dr. Casey Maloney is a board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care services to Center For Sight patients, including vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. He also provides pre-operative testing and follow up care for cataract and LASIK surgery patients.

Originally from Michigan, Dr. Maloney grew up in the small college town of Big Rapids. He was competitive in many high school sports, including hockey, football, soccer and baseball. Dr. Maloney played varsity baseball at Ferris State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology. He then moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he began his master’s degree in Computer Technology at DePaul University. Dr. Maloney continued his education and graduated with honors and a Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University. Prior to graduation, Dr. Maloney completed his optometry internship at Center For Sight in 2003.

He is a member of the American Optometric Association, Florida Optometric Association and the Manasota Optometric Society.

Dr. Maloney lives in Bradenton and has a son, Zachary, and daughter, Kayla. He is an enthusiastic Detroit Redwings fan. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, the beach, scuba diving, hockey and playing guitar.

Locations served: Sarasota, Pelican Plaza

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Elizabeth McVey is a residency-trained and board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care to Center For Sight patients. As part of the integrated optometric and ophthalmology physician team, she works cooperatively in the ongoing treatment of macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, cataracts and other ocular diseases.

Her services include vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, contact lenses, vision therapy, and the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases such as glaucoma. In addition, she manages pre-operative testing and follow-up care for both cataract surgery and laser vision correction patients.

A native of Columbus, Ohio, she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Dr. McVey went on to earn her Doctor of Optometry and Master of Science Degree at The Ohio State University College of Optometry in Columbus, Ohio. She also completed a fellowship in binocular vision and pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Optometry, and served as an instructor in the College of Optometry. Dr. McVey has donated her time to performing eye exams and dispensing glasses and eye drops in Nicaragua.

In 2017, Dr. McVey received the Garland W. Clay Award; a national award granted by the American Academy of Optometry. The Garland W. Clay Award recognizes distinguished individuals who have impacted and advanced the profession of optometry.

Dr. McVey lives in Venice with her husband, Sean, and four children. As an Ohio State graduate, Dr. McVey is a diehard “Buckeye” fan. When not cheering on her team, she enjoys volleyball, cooking, and reading, as well as enjoying the Florida sun with her family. She is a member of the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association and the American Academy of Optometry.

Location served: Englewood

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Dr. David Mertzlufft is a board-certified optometric physician who began his career with an optometric internship and residency at Center For Sight, and joined the physician staff full-time upon completion of this training in 1990. He has been a key member of the Center For Sight team ever since, providing a wide range of services, including primary vision care, pre-operative testing and follow-up care for cataract and laser vision correction patients. Dr. Mertzufft’s special area of interest is in diseases affecting the visual system, including glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Dr. Mertzlufft holds a Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, and a Doctor of Optometry degree from New England College of Optometry in Boston. He achieved honors in all his clinical rotations and is a current member of the Beta Sigma Kappa honors fraternity.

A dedicated physician, Dr. Mertzlufft has volunteered his time and skill with Voluntary Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH), joining with colleagues to provide optometric services to indigent people in South America.

Dr. Mertzlufft currently assists the Board of Directors of the Manasota Lighthouse For The Blind.

Dr. Mertzlufft lives in Sarasota with his wife, Lindsay, and daughters Lila and Chloe, where they enjoy the outdoors and the unlimited natural beauty our area has to offer. His many interests and hobbies include golfing, cycling, studying nature and kite surfing.

Location served: Venice

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Bradley Middaugh is a board-certified optometric physician committed to providing his patients the highest level of care through innovative technology and a focus on providing an excellent patient experience. Dr. Middaugh has extensive training in ocular disease, vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, specialty contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders for patients of all ages, from pediatric to geriatric.

Dr. Middaugh graduated from Wake Forest University and earned his doctorate at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. He has been in private practice since 1988 and founded The Fort Myers Eye Center in 1993. In 2020, he joined the Center For Sight team to offer his patients direct access to the some of the finest cataract, LASIK, glaucoma, cornea, retina, and oculo-plastics specialists in Southwest Florida.

Dr. Middaugh has served on the Lee County School Board as a member of the Health Care Advisory Panel and the Early Intervention Health Care Panel. He is also an active member of the Southwest Florida Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association, and the American Optometric Association, and Above Board Chamber. In addition, he enjoys leading Medical Mission teams annually to El Salvador.

Dr. Middaugh and his wife, Meg, enjoy raising their two boys. The family is very active in their church, Walk to Emmaus, Kairos Prison Ministry, and enjoy serving on medical mission teams.

Location served: Brantley Rd.

Dr. Patrick Nelson is a residency-trained optometric physician who provides a wide variety of primary care services to Center For Sight patients including vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. He also provides pre-operative testing and follow-up care for cataract and LASIK surgery patients.

Originally from Massachusetts, Dr. Nelson earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology-Psychology from Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts, and his Doctor of Optometry degree from the New England College of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts. In 2015, he completed his residency in ocular disease at Omni Eye Services in Atlanta, Georgia. After residency, he went on to work as the Clinical Director at a practice in Brookfield, Wisconsin, where he performed consultations, pre- and post-operative care, surgical co-management, comprehensive patient education and managed clinical operations.

Dr. Nelson is currently a member of the American Optometric Association and the Florida Optometric Association. He has completed many externships at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chrycy Eye Group, Eye Centers of South Florida and South End Community Health Center.

Dr. Nelson lives in Lakewood Ranch with his wife Ashley, where they enjoy the beach, trying new restaurants, cooking new recipes and exploring the area with their goldendoodle.

Locations served: Venice Island, University Park

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Logan Page is an optometric physician who provides a wide variety of primary care services to Center For Sight patients.

Dr. Page earned his Bachelor of Arts in General Studies – Pre-Optometry from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, and his Doctor of Optometry degree from University of Missouri-St. Louis. In 2017, he served as an optometric intern at Center For Sight under James Lenhart, O.D. After graduating he went on to work as an optometric physician at a practice in Springdale, Arkansas.

Dr. Page is currently a member of the American Optometric Association, American Academy of Optometry and the Fellowship of Christian Optometrists. He greatly enjoys volunteer work, having volunteered for numerous eye-related causes such as providing eye care to those who come from low-income households through the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation and Lions Club International. He has served as a provider for InfantSEE®, a public health program that provides free comprehensive eye assessments to infants.

Dr. Page lives in Sarasota with his wife Kallsy, where they enjoy biking, golf, kayaking and photography. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling to new cities and countries, creating in-depth travel guides and itineraries with his wife along the way.

Locations served: Siesta Dr. & Venice Island

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Dr. Charles Putrino II is licensed through the State of Florida as a Certified Optometrist. He has practiced in the Sarasota area for more than 25 years. A native of Binghamton, NY, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from State University of New York in Binghamton, NY, and his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry degrees from Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia, PA.

Dr. Putrino provides comprehensive primary eye care and specializes in anterior segment disease, co-management of refractive and cataract surgery, contact lenses, and sports vision. Past affiliations and memberships include The National Academy of Sports Vision and American Optometric Association.

Dr. Putrino’s professional accomplishments include: co-founding and directing a professional and consumer eye care device company that featured the patented Eyegenie®; founding and directing a web-based contact lens directory for eye care clinicians (www.Lensfindr.com); and internationally reselling new and used ophthalmic instruments and optical products.

Athletics and physical fitness have been an important part of Dr. Putrino’s life, with a strong focus on tennis and golf. He has actively competed in United States Tennis Association tournaments, United States Golf Association tournaments and Golf Channel Amateur Tour competitions.

Dr. Putrino lives in Sarasota with his wife, Regina; his two children, Charles and Jacqueline, who are active in competitive tennis and golf; and his dog, Yodi.

Location served: University Park

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Dr. Kyle Schaub is a residency-trained and board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care services to Center For Sight patients, including vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders such as glaucoma.

In addition, he is involved in pre-operative testing and follow-up care for both cataract surgery and laser vision correction patients.

Originally from Suttons Bay, Michigan, Dr. Schaub graduated from Hope College in Holland, Michigan, with a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. He went on to earn his Doctor of Optometry degree with high distinction from Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan.

Dr. Schaub then completed an intensely competitive and rigorous residency focused on ocular disease at Omni Eye Services of Atlanta.

As a specialist with experience in ocular disease, Dr. Schaub is skilled at early diagnosis and treatment. He manages total patient vision care and employs the latest techniques to ensure patients receive the best available treatment.

Dr. Schaub is committed to providing an unsurpassed level of care for patients of Center For Sight.

Dr. Schaub and his wife, Beth, live in Sarasota with their children, Aubrey, Kelsey, Brinley and Hudson. He enjoys spending time with his friends and family, the beauty of the outdoors, playing golf, exercising, and reading.

Locations served: Sarasota, Siesta Dr.

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Dr. Soto was born in Tampa, Florida but moved to Sarasota as a child when his father started working for Loewe Optical Company. His father, Fred E. Soto, Sr., would purchase Loewe Optical and change its name to Soto Opticians. Eventually, he owned 9 stores along Florida’s west coast, one of which would become Soto Eye Center. Soto, Sr. went on to serve 12 years on the Sarasota City Commission and then become Mayor of Sarasota.

Frederick E. Soto, Jr. graduated from Sarasota High School in 1972. As a sousaphone player in Meredith Wilson’s 1,076 piece marching band, he played at the grand opening of Walt Disney World. He continued this passion at Florida State University where he played in the Marching Chiefs. A highlight was traveling to Amman, Jordan and Damascus, Syria to play for King Hussein of Jordan. He received an Associate of Arts Certificate from FSU in 1974.

He wanted to follow his father’s path in the eye industry, however, Soto, Jr. had aspirations to go a step further. He attended the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee. In 1977, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in biology with a minor in physics and in 1979, a Doctor of Optometry degree. Dr. Soto came back to Sarasota to open his private optometric practice in September 1980.

After years of working, Dr. Soto went back to school and received a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Sarasota (now Argosy University) in 2000, a Master of Public Health degree from the University of South Florida in 2001, and a Juris Doctor degree from Stetson University College of Law in 2006. He has been a member of the Florida Bar since 2007.

In 2019, Soto Eye Center partnered with Center For Sight to continue providing exceptional eye care to the Sarasota community.

He lives with his wife and their dog and has one daughter who does international marketing in New York City.

Location served: Sarasota

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Dr. Joseph Sowka received his Bachelor of Sciences Degree with Distinction from Cornell University, and his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) at Salus University in Philadelphia, PA. He completed his residency at PCO as well. Following residency, Dr. Sowka accepted a university appointment at Southeastern University of the Health Sciences (now Nova Southeastern University). He served as full time academic faculty at the College of Optometry for 28 years, achieving the rank of Full Professor. He served as Chief of The Advanced Care Service and Director of the Glaucoma Service at the College’s Eye Institute. He was the Program Coordinator and Supervisor for the Ocular Disease Residency. He also served as Chair for the Department of Optometric Clinical Sciences. He taught courses in Glaucoma and Vitreoretinal Disease for 26 years and in his academic career has trained over 2,500 optometrists and residents.

Dr. Sowka has authored 113 peer-review manuscripts, abstracts, and book chapters as well as over 180 other publications including 19 editions of The Handbook of Ocular Disease Management. Dr. Sowka serves on the Editorial Review Board of numerous journals. Dr. Sowka is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and was the first Diplomate in Glaucoma within the Academy. He has held numerous Chair positions within the American Academy of Optometry and is currently the Written Examination Chair for the Glaucoma Diplomate Program as well as the Chair of the Neuro-ophthalmic Disorders in Optometry Special Interest Group. Dr. Sowka is a founding member of both the Optometric Glaucoma Society and Optometric Retina Society and has served on the Executive Committees of both organizations. He is also the Founder and Chair of the Neuro-Ophthalmic Disorders in Optometry Special Interest Group for the American Academy of Optometry. Dr. Sowka lectures extensively nationally and internationally.

Dr. Sowka’s clinical patient care has exclusively been in the area of glaucoma diagnosis and management as well as care for patients with neuro-ophthalmic conditions. Dr. Sowka will be providing care to patients with glaucoma as well as those with neuro-ophthalmic issues such as double vision and sudden vision loss. He is also available for emergency conditions such as eye redness, pain, and other acute issues.

Dr. Sowka lives in Sarasota with his wife, Dr. Lori Vollmer, who is also a provider for Center for Sight, as well as their numerous pets including a dog, cats, birds and reptiles. Most weekends, Dr. Sowka is away providing continuing medical education to practicing doctors throughout the US and abroad. Dr. Sowka enjoys working out, reading, writing, and music (playing piano and singing) and is thrilled to be part of the mission of Center for Sight to provide compassionate care to every patient.

Location served: Jacaranda

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Dr. Scott Stevens is a board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care services to Center For Sight patients, including vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders such as glaucoma. In addition, he is involved in pre-operative testing and follow-up care for both cataract surgery and laser vision correction patients.

A graduate of Villanova University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Dr. Stevens went on to earn his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry degrees at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia, where he also completed a residency in primary eye care and ocular disease. He is a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa honors fraternity and has been nationally published.

Dr. Stevens and his wife, Melissa, live in Osprey with their daughters, Madelyn and Hannah, and their three dogs, Zoey, Lola and Bradley. Dr. Stevens was a member of the Villanova boxing team and enjoys playing tennis.

Location served: Venice

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Dr. Lori Vollmer earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of South Florida in 1990. Following graduation, she worked as a certified ophthalmic technician for eight years until pursuing a career in optometry. She graduated with honors and distinction from Nova Southeastern University, College of Optometry in 2002. She completed a residency in ocular disease at the Aran Eye Associates in Miami, Florida in July 2003. She completed a Masters’ of Science in Nutrition from the Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2018 with an emphasis in Sports Nutrition.

Prior to joining Center For Sight, Dr. Vollmer worked in academia at Nova Southeastern University for 16 years, holding the rank of Professor, where she served as an Attending Physician in the Primary Care and Diabetes and Macula Clinics. She also served in college administration as the Director of Residency Programs for the College of Optometry for 13 years, mentoring and supervising residents. Her classroom teaching experience included a course in Nutrition and Ocular Health as well as guest lectures in anterior and posterior segment ocular disease.

Dr. Vollmer has several published articles in optometric journals and has delivered numerous continuing education lectures nationally and internationally in ocular disease, trauma, medical and surgical management and nutrition. She also serves as a reviewer for optometric journal publications.

She is a Fellow in the American Academy of Optometry, Fellow in the Optometric Retina Society, member of the Optometric Wellness and Nutrition Society, member of the American Optometric Association, Member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and member of the Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (FAND). In Florida, Dr. Vollmer served on the Board of the Broward County Optometric Association for over 10 years and is a Past President of the BCOA. Dr. Vollmer also serves as a team chair consultant for the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE).

Dr. Vollmer is married to Dr. Joseph Sowka, who is also an optometric physician at Center for Sight. Her hobbies include exercising and spending time with her animals.

Location served: Jacaranda

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Daniel Valentine is an optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care services to Center For Sight patients. Dr. Valentine has extensive training in ocular disease, vision testing, eyewear prescriptions, specialty contact lenses and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. He is involved in pre-operative testing and follow-up care for cataract surgery, corneal transplant, and laser vision correction patients. Dr. Valentine strives to offer compassionate care with a focus on creating an exceptional patient experience.

Dr. Valentine earned his Doctor of Optometry degree from The Ohio State University School of Optometry located in Columbus, Ohio. He is a member of the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association and the Southwest Florida Optometric Association. He is also a Lions Club Eye Care Provider, offering discounted or complimentary eye care services to those in need through the Lions Club International Foundation.

Dr. Valentine began his career in Fort Myers in 1985, where he worked in a large ophthalmology surgery practice. Remaining in Fort Myers for the duration of his career gave him the opportunity to develop valuable relationships with many area providers. Dr. Valentine opened his private optometric practice in Fort Myers in 2003, previously known as Valentine Eye Care. In 2020, he joined the Center For Sight team to offer his patients direct access to the some of the finest cataract, LASIK, glaucoma, cornea, retina, and oculo-plastics specialists in Southwest Florida.

Dr. Valentine lives in Gulf Harbor where he enjoys golfing, tennis and exercising. He enjoys spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren, and has traveled extensively around the world.

Location served: San Carlos Blvd.

Dr. Trisha Werner is a board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide range of primary eye care services including comprehensive eye examinations, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and the diagnosis and treatment of eye disease. She also participates in the co-management of cataract and LASIK surgery.

Prior to joining Center For Sight, Dr. Werner owned and operated her own private optometric practice in Sarasota for ten years. She has also practiced in Venice, Port Charlotte and Englewood. In addition, Dr. Werner has practiced in Bentonville, AR, and Springfield, MO.

Dr. Werner is a native of Spirit Lake, Iowa. She became interested in optometry at an early age because her father, who is now a retired optometrist, had his own private practice in their community. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Dakota, and received her Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Dr. Werner’s professional affiliations include the American Optometric Association and the Florida Optometric Association. She is licensed to practice in both Florida and Missouri.

Dr. Werner spends most of her free time enjoying activities with her daughter. She also likes walking, nature hikes, and spending time at the beach. Dr. Werner’s philosophy about her practice is, “To always treat your patient as if he or she was a member of your family.”

Location served: Pelican Plaza

Awards & Honors

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Dr. Avril is a board-certified optometric physician who provides a wide variety of primary care services to patients. He knew he wanted to pursue optometry at age eight when he was treated for his own eye issues. He received his undergraduate degrees, graduating magna cum laude, from St. Petersburg Junior College and the University of South Florida. He completed his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Missouri School of Optometry where he received the Dean’s Award for graduating first in his class, and the Outstanding Contact Lens Achievement Award. During his time there, Dr. Avril was a teaching assistant for neuroanatomy and clinical studies, completed an externship at St. Louis Eye Hospital, and did rounds at Barnes Hospital. 

Dr. Avril is a member of the American Optometric Association, Southern Council of Optometrists, Florida Optometric Association and the Southwest Florida Optometric Association. 

Born in Columbus, Ohio, he was raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. He lives in Estero with his wife Mary. Dr. Avril’s hobbies include live performance singing, playing guitar, cooking, fishing and spending time with family. 

Location served: Southwest Florida Eye Care – Cape Coral

Dr. Marhue is a board-certified optometric physician that provides a wide variety of primary eye care to patients. He completed his bachelor’s degree and Doctor of Optometry degrees at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He completed externships at Omega Eye Care Center, Piedmont Medical Center, Birmingham V.A. Medical Center and the Sparks Center for Developmental Vision Clinic. 

Dr. Marhue’s present and past memberships include Students of Optometry Serving Humanity, the Trinidad and Tobago Optometrists Association, Florida Surgical Eye Expeditions, the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association and the Southwest Florida Optometric Association. 

He served as the president of the Southwest Florida Optometric Association for over four years and has participated in multiple eye mission trips to Trinidad, Guatemala and El Salvador. 

Born in Trinidad, he completed high school and started college in Toronto and completed his last years of undergraduate and professional training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He served as the Director of Optometry at the Eye Centers of Florida for 14 years before joining Southwest Florida Eye Care as a partner which is now part of Center For Sight. 

Dr. Marhue has lived in Fort Myers since 1991. He and his wife Tricia are the proud parents of two adult children, Aaron and Brittnie. His joy is first his family, followed by hiking, climbing, cycling, fishing and soccer. 

Location served: Southwest Florida Eye Care – Fort Myers

Dr. Orr is a board-certified optometric physician that provides a wide variety of primary eye care to patients. She completed her bachelor’s degree at Florida Southern College, followed by her Doctor of Optometry degree at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis. She completed internships at Winter Haven Eye Clinic in Winter Haven, Florida and St. Luke’s Eye Institute in Tarpon Springs, Florida. 

Dr. Orr is a member of the American Optometric Association, Florida Optometric Association, Southwest Florida Optometric Association, Contact Lens Association of Optometrists and the Kiwanis Club. She has dedicated her time to the Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity, an organization that facilitates the provision and sustainability of vision care worldwide for people who can neither afford nor obtain such care. She has traveled to Belize, Santo Domingo, Costa Rica, Haiti and Panama. Dr. Orr serves on several local boards including the Humane Society of Lee County, Parkinson’s of Southwest Florida and Alzheimer’s Association Florida Gulf Coast Chapter. 

Originally from Maine, Dr. Orr has lived in Southwest Florida since 1989. Dr. Orr is active in sports, particularly tennis, golf and cycling. She is passionate about animal rescue and enjoys crafting and traveling. 

Location served: Southwest Florida Eye Care – Naples