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A Legacy of Excellence: Celebrating NECO’s 132nd Commencement

On Sunday, May 17, 2026, the historic Symphony Hall in Boston resonated with the cheers of family, friends, and faculty as NECO celebrated its 132nd Commencement ceremony. This year, the college honored the remarkable achievements of the Class of 2026, welcoming a new generation of doctors into the optometric profession.

The ceremony served not only as a milestone for our graduates but also as an opportunity to recognize trailblazers who have made profound contributions to vision science, education, and global eye health.

Honoring Visionary Leaders

The NECO Board of Trustees conferred honorary degrees and medals upon three distinguished individuals whose work has reshaped the landscape of eye care:

H. Eric Cushing (Honorary Degree Recipient): A dedicated philanthropist based in Chestnut Hill, MA, Mr. Cushing has been a transformative force in low vision research. His significant support of NECO’s Low Vision Program and Clinic, as well as his foundation’s work with Yale University, continues to pave the way for breakthroughs in Advanced Macular Degeneration and rehabilitation.

Yavar Ali Khan, RO (Honorary Degree Recipient): A pillar of the Canadian optical community, Mr. Khan’s journey from a lab trainee to the CEO of the Academy of Ophthalmic Education is an inspiration. His decades of service to the College of Opticians of Ontario and his commitment to accredited education have elevated standards for practitioners across North America.

Yvette Waddell, MBA, GAICD (Presidential Medal Recipient): As CEO of the Brien Holden Vision Institute, Ms. Waddell was recognized for her tireless advocacy in myopia management. From establishing “Myopia Awareness Week” to her stewardship of the International Myopia Institute, her leadership has turned childhood myopia into a globally recognized and treatable health priority.

Celebrating the Class of 2026 Valedictorians

The Class of 2026 was led by two exceptional co-valedictorians, representing the diverse paths and bright futures of our newest alumni:

Olivia Carey, OD
Originally from Dover, NH, Dr. Carey’s path to NECO was inspired by her work with alumna Tess Deresienski, OD. During her tenure at NECO, she served as an anatomy teaching assistant and found deep inspiration in the specialized seminars led by Dr. Maureen Hanley.

The Next Chapter: Dr. Carey will be commissioned with the United States Navy, serving as a Naval Optometrist for the next four years.


Carly Davies, OD
Hailing from Terrace, British Columbia, Dr. Davies transitioned from a varsity volleyball career to the clinical world, driven by a desire to serve her community. Her passion for pediatric care was sparked under the mentorship of Dr. Stacy Lyons—a passion fueled by the joy and humor found in everyday patient interactions.

The Next Chapter: Dr. Davies plans to return to British Columbia to begin her professional career in her home province.

A Note to Our Newest Alumni

To the Class of 2026: You join a network of over a century of alumni who have dedicated their lives to the gift of sight. As you move into your residencies and practices, remember the values of clinical excellence and compassionate care fostered here in Boston.

Welcome to the alumni family! We look forward to seeing the “vision” you bring to your communities and the profession. Feel free to reach out to the Alumni staff with any questions.