Georgia Southern University stated it has established an optometric education task force composed of nationally recognized leaders in optometry, educators, and advocates to guide the development of the university’s college of optometry.

The task force will reportedly provide strategic guidance, including program proposal, curriculum development, accreditation planning, partnerships, clinical education opportunities, and workforce alignment. Leading the task force is Horace Deal, OD, owner of Southeastern Eye Care Clinics in Statesboro, Georgia, team optometrist for Georgia Southern Athletics, and past president of both the Southern Council of Optometrists International and the Georgia Optometric Association.

According to a university press release, the new college reflects Georgia Southern’s commitment to meeting the state’s growing demand for eyecare professionals while expanding access to comprehensive vision care, particularly in rural and underserved communities.