ESSILOR ANNOUNCES RECIPIENTS OF $20,000 TECHNOLOGY GRANTS

CLOSE COMPETITION RESULTS IN A TIE FOR ONE OF THE AWARDS
DALLAS - (January 24, 2003) – Essilor of America, Inc. announced today the winners of its 2002 Essilor Optical Technology Grants, one-time awards given to colleges of optometry that exhibit their commitment to growing the industry through new advancements. Northeastern State University College of Optometry of Tahlequah, Oklahoma and The Ohio State University College of Optometry of Columbus, Ohio each received $20,000 grants to apply toward continuing industry education. A tie between Michigan College of Optometry of Big Rapids, Michigan and State University New York Optometry of New York, New York resulted in Essilor dividing the prize, so each school received $10,000.

“The Essilor Optical Technology Grant program drew tremendous interest,” said Dr. Rodney Tahran, vice president of professional relations and clinical affairs for Essilor of America. “Essilor is proud to be able to support the schools that encourage advancement in ophthalmic materials and care. For this reason, we are thrilled to announce Essilor will be offering three more $20,000 grants in 2003.”

Essilor introduced the grant program at the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) meeting in conjunction with the American Optometric Association (AOA) Congress. Details of the 2003 grant program will be announced in the spring.

Entry requirements included a description in 1,000 words or less why the school needs and deserves the grant. Applications were 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.