High achieving optical dispensers were celebrated and the important role of optical dispensers in practice acknowledged at the 37th Optical Dispensing Graduation and ADOA Continuing Education event, hosted at Darling Harbour and overlooking spectacular views of VIVD in late May.
Reflecting on his own involvement in the optical dispensing industry, guest speaker Michael Nasser began the night with educational tips and tricks for the new graduates. By encouraging the students to get out there and not be afraid to make mistakes, Mr. Nasser stressed the importance of finding the fun in work and to show initiative by getting involved and always taking the opportunity to learn more.
Course coordinator and full-time teacher, Steven Daras welcomed the graduates to the industry with warm recognition of their achievements and a reminder to keep pursuing their career goals while growing the optical dispensing industry. “We encourage everyone to be the best they can so that they can be a benefit to the workplace and to the public,” he said. “We’ve got an enthusiastic group of graduates, they are the future of our industry, they’re going to go out and use what they’ve learnt to become young professionals.”
Awarded on the night, to the highest achieving graduate, was the prestigious TAFE NSW State Medal. Not necessarily presented every year and open to only eight eligible students across TAFE NSW, this year’s prize was awarded to Rima Haynes for her exceptional commitment to studies and consistently high achievement throughout her course. Ms. Haynes was acknowledged for having the highest average mark in the state for all assessable units.
Ms. Haynes was acknowledged for having the highest average mark in the state for all assessable units
“Being in a position where you’re able to help someone is such a blessing,” said Ms. Haynes. She said throughout her studies, she was grateful for the knowledge gained and the dedication of her teachers in their ability to make students want to learn and strive for the best. “The opportunity to study has given me the motivation to do things properly and in the best way that I can.”
In honour of his long term, dedicated contribution to ADOA, Vice President Martin Kocbek was awarded the John Jackson ADOA Award, named in memory of the late John Jackson, founding member of ADOA. Newly appointed President, Amelia Roberts acknowledged Mr. Kocbek’s passion for optical dispensing and said that, while battling ongoing health issues, “Martin would still drop everything to be out there doing whatever was needed for ADOA and for us”.
The evening concluded with graduates paying thanks to the optical dispensing teaching staff for their hard work and dedication.
Photo courtesy of Happy Medium Photo Company
