Outstanding students, faculty, and staff received honors at the University of Houston College of Optometry’s annual Leadership Awards, held April 21 at the college’s Texas State Optical Alumni Center. Dean Michael Twa presented the awards following remarks that recognized awardees for their commitment to shaping the future of optometric education, discovery, and patient care.

“Our College Leadership awardees are selected by students, faculty, and peers," said Dr. Twa. "These honors carry special meaning because they recognize those whose dedication and commitment have earned the admiration and respect of the people they work with every day.” 

Faculty Awards

Dr. Wendy Harrison, Associate Professor, received the Cora and J. Davis Armistead Teaching Excellence Award, the College’s highest instructional honor. Recipients of this award are selected based on sustained excellence and originality in teaching, national reputation, and the long-term impact of their contributions to optometric education.

Beta Sigma Kappa (BSK) – the international honor society for optometry students that promotes academic excellence, scientific achievement, and ethical practice in vision care – recognized two faculty members for excellence in lecture and clinical education:

  • Dr. Danica Marrelli, Assistant Dean for Clinical Education - BSK Outstanding Lecture Faculty Award
  • Dr. Samantha Wang, Clinical Assistant Professor - BSK Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award

Students also selected the following faculty members for their outstanding instruction and clinical mentorship:

  • Dr. Han Cheng, Janice M. Wensveen Clinical Professor: Outstanding Teaching Award, Optometry I
  • Dr. Amber Gaume Giannoni, Kevin McDaid-Vision Source Professor: Outstanding Teaching Award, Optometry II
  • Dr. Danica Marrelli, Assistant Dean for Clinical Education: Outstanding Teaching Award, Optometry III
  • Dr. Samantha Wang, Clinical Assistant Professor: Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award, Optometry III
  • Dr. Jennifer Tasca, Clinical Assistant Professor: Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award, Optometry IV

Staff Awards

Several staff members were also honored for their contributions to UH College of Optometry:

  • Evan Klaff, ABOC, Optician, UH Eye Care: OSA Ann Goodrich Image Award, for his dedication and contributions to patient care and the success of the college
  • Cristian Loayza, Program Manager, Office of Professional Relations: Staff Excellence Award, for demonstrating the values of the college, outstanding personal traits and superior job performance
  • Johannes “Jonny” Chen, Program Coordinator, UH Eye Care: Rising Star Award, for demonstrating initiative, innovation and strengthening the college community

Student Awards

The Student Leadership Award was presented to fourth-year student Serena Everett for her leadership, involvement in campus and community life, positive impact on peers, and commitment to professional development.

In addition, the college recognized the following students for their leadership contributions throughout the school year:

  • Class of 2026: Zainab Asif, Kelsey Joe, Gene Jung, Sneha Mathew
  • Class of 2027: Elana Breslav, Trey Carter
  • Class of 2028: Loc “Andy” Nguyen, Anjali Petersen
  • Class of 2029: Christian Garrison, Larose Mutombo