Receiving submissions for the annual #EBGameChanger awards from EB’s editorial team, board, and previous award recipients always highlights just how special this industry is. Over the past decade, I’ve witnessed the supportive nature of the eyecare industry, and this camaraderie is especially palpable during the call for nominations for #EBGameChanger recipients.
“Thank you for the opportunity to recognize greatness around us,” one former #EBGameChanger, Cira Collins, replied to a call-for-nominations email. “I admire that ECB not only applauds excellence but is looking out for the innovators who are challenging the status quo; finding the folks who are never content with the answer ‘because we’ve always done it that way.’” Cira proceeded to share glowing endorsements for Gwen Cooper, the executive director of the United Opticians Association, who is highlighted within our #EBGameChanger feature.
Eyecare Business debuted in January 1986, with a feature on “Romancing the Lens.” Here, a small snapshot of EB throughout the past four decades. For an expanded archive, click here.
We’ve been leaning into her words in a different manner, though, as EB embraces its digital capabilities in 2026, aligning with our 40th year. It will be game-changing in its own right, as it also looks beyond the “because we’ve always done it that way” line of reasoning. A heartfelt thank you to the EB family (from the eagle-eyed editors and contributors to the top-tier designers), innovative supporters, and our valuable readers who have enjoyed EB in print. As we look ahead, this strategic, digital-first shift will allow EB to reach a broader audience, respond more quickly to trends, and strengthen its capabilities in new forms of content and engagement in this ever-evolving industry. We look forward to continuing our vision at eyecarebusiness.com, within our weekly newsletters, on social media, and beyond.
Kerri Ann DeCindis,
Editor-in-Chief