Alumni Affairs

The Office of Alumni Affairs encourages graduates of SUNY College of Optometry to stay connected with each other and the College through a variety of programs, events, and services. Alumni can stay informed about the College’s latest developments through our website and our alumni newsletter.

Our over 3,500 alumni play a crucial role in our success. Many generously give their time by speaking at events, sharing their expertise in the classroom, mentoring students, and offering valuable career guidance.

Every graduate, including residents, automatically becomes a member of the Alumni Association upon completing their degree or program. Membership is lifelong for those who uphold the Optometric Oath, adhere to ethical and compliance guidelines, and follow the College’s code of conduct. All members are eligible to be elected to the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

While there are no dues or membership fees, we encourage alumni to consider making financial contributions to support the College and future generations of optometrists. To donate, visit sunyopt.edu/give



John Varamo


Mr. John Varamo

Director of Strategic Engagement & Alumni Affairs

Phone: (212) 938-5600

Email: jvaramo@sunyopt.edu




Alumni News

Transforming Vision: SUNY College of Optometry 2025 State of the College Address

2024 Annual Report is available online. Watch the State of the College. March 7, 2025- New York, NY:  – SUNY College of Optometry held its 2025 State of the College Address, delivered by President Dr. David Troilo.  The annual event was the first address by Dr. Troilo after being named the fourth President this past […]

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SUNY College of Optometry Alumna Publishes Children’s Book About A Child’s Eyeglass Journey

March 10, 2025- New York, NY:  – SUNY College of Optometry Alumna Dr. Samantha Slotnick, ’04. R’05 is a behavioral optometrist practicing in Scarsdale, New York, who has completed her new book, “But MOMMY, I can SEE!”, a charming story that centers around a young girl who has trouble remembering to use her glasses for […]

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SUNY College of Optometry Foundation Recognizes Over 50 Students with Annual Scholarship Support

View Additional Photos New York, NY:  The SUNY College of Optometry Foundation recognized 55 current students during the College’s annual Scholarship Presentation on Wednesday, November 13 with an audience of donors, students, alumni, parents, and foundation board members.  Hosted annually, it brings together scholarship recipients and donors to celebrate academic achievement, dedication, and philanthropy. SUNY […]

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SUNY COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY HONORS FOUR ALUMNI AT THE SEPTEMBER ALUMNI AWARDS CELEBRATION

New York, NY:  Alumni from across the country will come together for a weekend in New York City to celebrate with former classmates and honor distinguished colleagues in a tradition of leadership and advocacy that has been the hallmark of SUNY College of Optometry for more than 50 years. This year’s honorees include four distinguished Alumni […]

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SUNY CAMPUSES JOIN FORCES TO ADDRESS EYE CARE WORKFORCE NEEDS AND ACCESS IN UPSTATE NEW YORK

SUNY College of Optometry to Establish an Extension Program for Doctor of Optometry Candidates in Syracuse, NY at SUNY Upstate Medical University For Immediate Release – February 21, 2023 Manhattan / Syracuse, NY, February 21, 2023 – Two State University of New York (SUNY) campuses join forces to improve access to health care through growing […]

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Upcoming Alumni Events

April 2025

No event during this month