For Houstonians living with low vision, accessing resources and finding support can be challenging. The annual Insight Expo—a collaboration between the Houston Area Visually Impaired Network and the University of Houston College of Optometry—helped change that by bringing education, peer support, and community to those with blindness and visual impairment.

Hosted at the University of Houston College of Optometry, the event brought together community members, vision care professionals, and advocacy organizations in an inclusive space designed to break down barriers and build connections. The Expo served as a hub for accessing assistive technology, practical resources, and much-needed support.

Spearheaded by Dr. Swati Modi, director of the Center for Sight Enhancement at the University of Houston College of Optometry, and Ron Graham, President of the Houston Area Visually Impaired Network, the event focused on reaching individuals who are blind or visually impaired to provide a sense of community and belonging.

“At the heart of the Insight Expo was a simple idea—that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves access to the tools and care that can help them live independently,” said Ron Graham. “This event was about opening doors and making sure people know they aren’t alone.”

“Our collaboration with the Houston Area Visually Impaired Network on the Insight Expo——is central to our mission of community engagement,” said Michael Twa, dean of the University of Houston College of Optometry. “Thanks to the leadership of individuals like Dr. Modi and Mr. Graham, this eventt created meaningful opportunities to directly connect with those who need support and ensured they know where to turn for help.”

By hosting the event on campus, the University of Houston College of Optometry provided a welcoming and accessible environment, supported by the active involvement of its faculty, staff, and students. Their presence not only offered attendees expert insight but also introduced them to local, ongoing vision and eye care services.

“Our goal was to ensure individuals with low vision were aware of opportunities allowing them to live full and independent lives,” said Dr. Swati Modi. “Whether someone was newly diagnosed with visual impairment or had been living with vision loss for years, we wanted them to leave the Expo knowing how to access available resources and take their next steps.”

The impact of this year’s Insight Expo was clear through its keynote speaker, panel presentations, and exhibitors:

• Perseverance and Positivity: Tricia Waechter, CEO of Blind Girl Designs, a clothing company focused on fashion for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, shared her personal story and delivered a motivational speech on overcoming challenges and maintaining optimism.
• Learning to Live Independently: Presenters highlighted programs that help people with blindness or visual impairment achieve vocational goals and live independently. These programs are available through the Texas Workforce Commission and at state, private, and nonprofit blind rehabilitation facilities. The session also included participation from national consumer organizations, such as the National Federation of the Blind, which operates training centers across the country, including the Louisiana Center for the Blind.
• Communication Connections: Presenters discussed challenges and assistive technology solutions for individuals with both vision and hearing loss to provide accessible communication options.
• Community Building: The event fostered a sense of belonging, creating space for individuals to share experiences and form peer support networks.
• Direct Pathways to Low Vision Care: Conversations with clinical faculty opened the door to continued vision care, a crucial step for many who previously went without.

“So many people we met at the expo told us this was the first time they had someone listen, offer solutions, and show up for them,” said Graham. “That’s why this work matters. We weren’t just connecting people to resources—we were helping them see what’s possible.”

Ron Graham and his team at the Houston Area Visually Impaired Network continue to partner with the University of Houston College of Optometry to assess the long-term impact of the Expo. Early feedback has already pointed to life-changing outcomes as participants take proactive steps toward managing their vision and accessing essential care.

“The power of this event was in its collaboration,” Dr. Modi added. “It wasn’t just about providing care—it was about listening, understanding, and empowering people to take control of their own vision journey.”

The Insight Expo is more than just an event—it is a reminder of what’s possible when communities come together to uplift those who need it most. Through shared effort and unwavering commitment, real change is within reach.