CooperVision and the American Optometric Association (AOA) have introduced a new Student Change Agent position as an expansion of The Myopia Collective. Entering its third year, this national initiative is focused on advancing the standard of care for children with myopia.
The Student Change Agent program is designed to engage future optometrists earlier in their careers. One rising fourth-year student will be selected from each of the nation’s 25 optometry schools.
More Opportunities for Change
The program will also open applications for new Change Agent positions, adding 17 new Change Agents across 15 states. Change Agents serve as state-level ambassadors, receiving specialized training in myopia management while promoting pediatric eye health within their practices and communities. This year’s placements target Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Washington.
While Change Agent roles are state-specific, the Student Change Agent program is open nationwide.
Deadlines and Announcement
Applications for both practicing optometrists and students are open through April 27, 2026. Newly selected Change Agents and Student Change Agents will be announced in conjunction with Optometry’s Meeting 2026 taking place June 17–20 in Phoenix. Participants will also attend a dedicated training workshop in November in Houston. Here, they will receive practical guidance on implementing myopia management strategies and collaborate with peers on children’s eye health.
About The Myopia Collective
Since launching in 2024, The Myopia Collective has grown to more than 3,500 members and established a network of 70+ trained Change Agents. Through workshops and collaboration, participants work to increase awareness of evidence-based myopia management across the United States.
“The Myopia Collective is showing what the profession can achieve when we come together,” says AOA President Jacquie M. Bowen, OD. “The alarming undertreatment of myopia calls for decisive action, and expanding this initiative strengthens our capacity to respond. By empowering experienced optometrists and emerging student leaders alike, we are reinforcing the clinical expertise, advocacy strength, and professional collaboration needed to ensure that children everywhere have access to the comprehensive care they deserve.”