CALL FOR APPLICATIONS:
THE 2004 ESSILOR OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY GRANTS
Three $20,000 Grants to be Awarded by December

DALLAS - (September 14, 2004) – Essilor of America, Inc. is now accepting applications for the Essilor Optical Technology Grants – three $20,000 grants to be awarded to schools and colleges of optometry that exhibit their commitment to growing the industry through new advancements. This is the third year that Essilor is offering the grants. Recipients of the grants will be announced in December.

“We have received some pretty compelling entries in the past,” said Dr. Rodney Tahran, vice president of professional relations and clinical affairs for Essilor of America. “In fact, last year the entries were so close in quality that we divided one of the grants among two schools and awarded a total of four grants. So, we encourage all schools to apply.”

Applications have been distributed to all Deans and Presidents of Optometry Schools and Colleges of Optometry and may also be obtained by writing to dventura@essilorusa.com. Entry requirements include a description in 1,000 words or less why the school needs and deserves the grant. Applications will be judged on the school’s commitment to the growth of premium optical technology as well as how the money will help the school elevate the standards and visibility of ophthalmic dispensing for students. The panel of judges includes Essilor executives and independent optometrists.

o Applications must be signed by accompanying letter from school Dean or President
o Only one application per school may be submitted
o Applications must be submitted on computer disc or CD-ROM
o Applications must be sent to:

Optical Technology Grants
c/o Danne Ventura
Essilor Lenses
2400 118th Avenue North
St. Petersburg, FL 33716