Celebrating Excellence in Optometric Education: Isabelle Jalbert Receives the Michael G. Harris Award

We are proud to announce that Professor Isabelle Jalbert has been honoured with the Michael G. Harris Award from the American Academy of Optometry Foundation.

This prestigious recognition is presented to an educator who demonstrates ongoing and consistent excellence in teaching optometry students and advancing optometric education.  Named after Dr Michael G. Harris, it highlights the vital role educators play in shaping the future of the optometry profession.

Professor Jalbert’s career demonstrates a passion for teaching and a commitment to innovation, influencing countless students and colleagues.

Reflecting on this achievement, Professor Jalbert shared “It was humbling to receive this award and to see my name next to those of past teaching mentors and international collaborators. Not enough attention gets paid to teaching at times, and I am grateful that awards such as these exist.” She also highlighted the evolving nature of education “Teaching certainly does not stand still: teachers have had to pivot and learn to rapidly respond and adapt to challenges such as the pandemic and now artificial intelligence.”  Professor Jalbert expressed heartfelt gratitude to her students “I am grateful to all those students who have helped shape my teaching over the years. This award recognises them as much as me.”

This award is a testament to her excellence and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.  We congratulate Isabelle on this outstanding achievement and thank her for shaping the future of our profession.