Prevent Blindness has named Reade Fahs, executive chairman of National Vision Holdings, Inc., as the recipient of its 2027 Person of Vision Award.
The organization will recognize Fahs during the annual Person of Vision Award Gala on March 10, 2027, at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas in conjunction with Vision Expo. Proceeds from the event will support Prevent Blindness eye health and vision care programs.
The Prevent Blindness Person of Vision Award recognizes an individual whose leadership champions healthy vision and its role in a healthy life. An all-volunteer committee selected Fahs based on his optical industry leadership and commitment to expanding access to vision care to those in need.
Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness, says Fahs embodies the spirit of this award. “Throughout his career, he has led the industry with a deep commitment to improving the lives of people across the world through the gift of sight. As we honor Reade, we hope his example inspires others to join us in creating a future where everyone has the knowledge, support, and access to care they need to protect their sight.”
Four Decades in the Optical Industry
Fahs has worked in the optical industry in the United States and Europe for 40 years. He began his career with LensCrafters in 1986 and became managing director of VisionExpress UK and Ireland in 1997.
Fahs assumed leadership of National Vision in 2002 and served as CEO for 23 years before becoming executive chairman in late 2025. During his tenure, National Vision grew into one of the country’s leading optical retailers, with a portfolio that includes America’s Best, Eyeglass World, Vista Optical, and DiscountContacts.com.
In addition, Fahs has served on the boards of VisionSpring and RestoringVision and as chairman of VisionSpring for more than a decade. During his board tenure, the two organizations helped provide prescription eyeglasses to more than 50 million people worldwide.
“I’m honored to be recognized by Prevent Blindness and humbled to join such an outstanding group of past recipients,” says Fahs. “For more than 40 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with people who believe that better vision can open doors and improve lives. I look forward to celebrating with friends and colleagues across the industry while supporting the vital work Prevent Blindness does for people and communities around the world.”