April 7, 2026
The Myopia Collective, a collaborative effort between CooperVision and the American Optometric Association (AOA), has grown into a peer-to-peer community dedicated to advancing the standard of care for myopia management. With the number of children affected by the condition increasing at an alarming rate, the program is expanding its network of advocates to address the fact that myopia remains significantly undertreated across many communities.
Jennifer Palombi, OD, FAAO, Director, Professional Education and Development at CooperVision and Jacquie Bowen, OD, President of the AOA, recently spoke about the initiative’s expansion of 17 new Change Agent positions across 15 states, the introduction of Student Change Agents to engage the next generation of optometrists and why the combination of clinical education and advocacy is essential for driving long-term progress.
Read their full interview here:
The Myopia Collective has grown significantly since its launch. What are you most proud of as you enter this next phase?
Dr. Jennifer Palombi; Photo provided by CooperVision
Dr. Palombi: To me, it’s how quickly this has evolved into a true community. When the Change Agents met in person for the first time at our 2024 workshop, they were sharing challenges and brainstorming solutions with one another within minutes, already supporting each other like a network that had existed for years. We now have thousands of members and a growing network of Change Agents who are learning about, advocating for and implementing myopia management. That kind of peer-to-peer momentum is incredibly powerful, and it’s helping move the standard of care forward in a very real way.
Dr. Bowen: I would add that this initiative has demonstrated what’s possible when the profession aligns around a shared goal. We know that myopia is still significantly undertreated, often due to a lack of awareness, confidence, or access. The Myopia Collective is helping to close those gaps, and that’s something we’re very proud of.
This year, you’re opening applications for new Change Agents across 15 states. What does that expansion represent?
Dr. Bowen: The number of children affected by myopia, and high myopia, is increasing at an alarming rate, so there’s both a need and opportunity for more advocates. There are so many communities where children are not receiving the level of care that they need, and by expanding into additional states we’re strengthening our ability to reach those areas and support optometrists in delivering comprehensive myopia management.
Dr. Palombi: And importantly, we’re adding leadership. The Change Agents bring what they’ve learned back to their practices, their peers and their communities, so as that network grows, so does the overall impact.
One of the biggest updates this year is the introduction of Student Change Agents. What inspired this addition?
Dr. Palombi: We’ve seen a tremendous amount of interest from students who are already being exposed to myopia management during their training and want to get involved earlier. This felt like a natural evolution of the program because it creates a pathway for those future optometrists to build confidence and leadership skills before they even enter practice.
Dr. Bowen: It’s also about sustainability. If we want to truly shift the standard of care, we need to engage the next generation now. By bringing students into the program, we’re reinforcing the importance of myopia management at a formative stage in their careers, which will have long-term benefits for patients.
How do you see the interaction between experienced Change Agents and these new student leaders?
Dr. Jacquie Bowen; Photo provided by CooperVision
Dr. Bowen: I’m really excited to see the collaboration between the two. Experienced optometrists bring real-world insights, like what works in practice, how to communicate with patients and families and how to overcome barriers. Students bring fresh perspectives and a strong foundation in current education. Together, they can learn from each other in meaningful ways.
Dr. Palombi: Exactly. It creates a mentorship dynamic that strengthens the entire network. Students gain practical exposure, while seasoned practitioners often find renewed energy and inspiration through those interactions.
Dr. Palombi, you recently spoke about CooperVision’s partnership with the American Optometric Association, including your shared focus on advocacy and patient safety. How does that connect to The Myopia Collective, and the role Change Agents play?
Dr. Palombi: Advocacy is really at the heart of being a Change Agent. Yes, there’s a strong clinical education component, but just as important is the ability to speak up for your patients, for your profession, and for the standard of care.
Spending time on Capitol Hill reminded me how vital it is for optometrists to have a voice in shaping policy. That same spirit drives The Myopia Collective, because Change Agents raise awareness, engage peers and help drive broader change. And paired with partnerships like the AOA, that impact grows even further.
Dr. Bowen, your career has spanned clinical practice, leadership and advocacy at both the state and national levels. How has that shaped your perspective on initiatives like The Myopia Collective, and why is now an important time to expand participation?
Dr. Bowen: Those experiences have reinforced that progress in patient care requires leadership, collaboration and a willingness to advocate for change. That’s what The Myopia Collective is designed to do.
We know myopia remains significantly undertreated, despite the evidence supporting early intervention. Expanding the program brings more optometrists, and now students, into the effort, growing a network of leaders who can ensure children across the country get the care they need.
The program emphasizes both clinical education and advocacy. Why is that combination so important?
Dr. Palombi: Education is essential, but it’s only part of the equation. We also need optometrists to feel empowered to talk about myopia management to their patients, their peers and even within their broader communities. That’s where advocacy comes in.
Change Agents at the 2025 workshop in Phoenix, AZ; Photo provided by CooperVision
Dr. Bowen: And from a professional standpoint, advocacy helps elevate the role of optometry in addressing a major public health issue. When we speak with a unified voice about the importance of early intervention, it strengthens our ability to drive change at every level.
What would you say to optometrists or students who are considering applying?
Dr. Palombi: This is an opportunity to be part of something bigger than your individual practice. You’ll gain practical tools, connect with like-minded peers, and play a direct role in advancing care for children.
Dr. Bowen: And I would say, this is the moment to get involved. The need is clear, the evidence is strong, and the profession is mobilizing. Programs like The Myopia Collective give you a way to turn that momentum into action.
For more information on applying to The Myopia Collective, click here
