Biography

Dr. Janet Garza earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Houston College of Optometry after graduating from The University of Texas at Austin. She further specialized with a residency in Community-Based Family Practice, with an emphasis on ocular disease. Following several years in private practice, Dr. Garza joined the UHCO faculty in 2017 where she previously served as the Clinical Director of the UH Eye Center–Heights, a vital externship site for fourth-year optometry students dedicated to serving underserved patient populations and engaging in impactful community outreach. Currently she serves as Clinical Associate Professor at the University Eye Institute.

Beyond her clinical leadership, Dr. Garza is a dedicated educator, lecturing on diverse topics and serving as the Coursemaster for the Medical Procedures Lab.

In 2025, her commitment to the profession and leadership in optometry was recognized with the prestigious Mollie Armstrong Leadership Award from the Texas Optometric Association.

Dr. Garza is a Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry, a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, and a certified Optometric Glaucoma Specialist in Texas. She actively contributes to the field through her involvement in numerous professional organizations, including the Harris County Optometric Association, the Texas Optometric Association, Prevent Blindness Texas, the American Public Health Association, and the American Academy of Optometry.