Speakers
Connie Chong, Manager, Provider Relations, First Nations Health Authority
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The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is the first province-wide health authority of its kind in Canada. In 2013, the FNHA assumed the programs, services, and responsibilities formerly handled by Health Canada's First Nations Inuit Health Branch– Pacific Region. The FNHA’s vision is to transform the health and wellness of First Nations individuals in BC, in part by helping ensure the health care system is culturally safe and responsive to the needs of Indigenous people. Join this engaging session to explore the concepts of cultural safety and humility, reconciliation, and relational practice. Learn about the journey underway to transform the FNHA’s Health Benefits to support health and wellness for First Nations people in BC. |
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Rob Kloepfer, OD
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Dr. Kloepfer obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Western Ontario in 2008. He proceeded to work as an optometric assistant to gain a better understanding of the optometry profession. In 2013, Dr. Kloepfer graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry with his Doctor of Optometry degree. Currently, Dr. Kloepfer works in rural and urban private practice clinics in Alberta, Canada. Dr. Kloepfer is a Council member of the Alberta College of Optometrists, Secretary of the Calgary Society of Optometrists, and a member of the Alberta and Canadian Association of Optometrists. He also has a growing social media platform with Instagram (@eyedrkloepfer) focused on eye education. |
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Al Lens, COMT
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Al Lens is a Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) who began his ophthalmic career in 1986. Al presents/instructs at numerous education events across North America, including conventions for Opticians, Optometric Assistants, Optometrists and Ophthalmic Medical Personnel. Al was also a keynote speaker at King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital in Saudi Arabia. Al Lens is an author/co-author of published optical books (SLACK, Inc.), including LASIK for Technicians, Optics, Retinoscopy and Refractometry (1st and 2nd editions), Ocular Anatomy & Physiology (1st and 2nd editions), and Cataracts and Glaucoma. Al is currently employed at three (3) ophthalmology clinics (general practice and Laser refractive surgery) and has developed training programs for large ophthalmology practices. |
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Don Ross
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Don is an engaging and enthusiastic speaker who enjoys providing eye care professionals in Canada with the tools to create positive patient experiences. Don has presented keynote speeches, product seminars, and sessions for optometry buying groups, optician associations, national US optician and optometry groups, as well as at industry supplier events. Don has been in the optical industry for 25 years, working as a dispenser for a national optical retailer, a local optical chain, an independent optometrist, and a nationally recognized independent Optical Boutique. Don has an award-winning background as an account executive for two international frame manufacturers, and prior to his current role with Essilor, was the Western Canadian Territory Manager for Transitions Optical. |
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| Don has a degree in communications, specializing in public relations, and has held various marketing communications roles with federal and provincial government agencies, as well as a technology provider to the hotel and car rental industry. Don’s passion is delivering presentations that assist eye care professionals in their work to provide Canadian patients with the best visual solutions. Don is currently a member of the Essilor Academy Canada team, working as a Training & Development Consultant – Western Provinces. |
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