Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana Shechtman.
Hi Diana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey in optometry is easily described as, “opportunity meets preparedness.” I began my career over 25 years ago, graduating from optometry school in 1998 and completing my ocular disease residency in 1999. As I immersed myself in optometry and worked closely with students, I discovered a deep passion for both ocular disease and teaching. At the end of my residency, a retiring college professor approached me about a faculty position at NSUCO — an unexpected opportunity that aligned perfectly with my interests. I spent the next 17 years helping students develop their clinical skills, all while growing both within the college and the broader eyecare profession. During that time and as responsibilities grew, so did my fascination with retina. I realized I could make an even greater impact by not only working with patients but by fostering collaboration across a broader eyecare subspecialty. This growing curiosity prepared me for the next chapter. When I was granted a six-month sabbatical to shadow several retinal specialists in our community. It was an incredible experience. Toward the end of my sabbatical, opportunity knocked again: I was invited to join one of the retina specialists’ practices (RSMS) as a full-time provider. That role opened even more doors — allowing me to engage in collaborative care, lead new initiatives, participate in industry research, publish scholarly work, and speak at OD/OMD conferences. During my time at RSMS, I served as the Principal Investigator for the ICOD study and created TRIOD, a conference designed to bridge the educational gap between optometry and ophthalmology. Despite the success, I eventually realized that I didn’t fully align with the new model; once it was acquired by PE. So, I transitioned into an intermediary role (at ECOSF) that kept me connected to what I love — education through their externship program and supporting our eyecare community.
I’ve been fortunate to travel across the U.S. and internationally with my family, as I shared knowledge and collaborating with others. I’ve also been fortunate to have worked in many facet of optometry — from my current medical clinical practices (Loh Ophthalmology Associates & Retinal Consultants of Miami) to lecturers, research, education, and even podcasting (Dueling Perspective). Today, I remain active in organizations within and outside of the profession (WIE, AOECE, BCOA, and LEO), continuing to advocate for and expand collaborative care.
At the heart of my journey is a desire to bridge the gap between optometry and ophthalmology. As a mother, I want my children to grow and succeed — and I now feel that same desire for my students, colleagues, and the next generation within the profession. I want to help them grow, thrive, and lead with purpose, just like I had so many pave my way.
Compassion is my guiding principle, and I have no regrets. My advice? Immerse yourself fully in whatever you do. Life can change in an instant, and new passions may emerge. But your dedication to doing the best for your patients should never waver — because they are the ones we ultimately serve.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have always been struggles — balancing a professional and personal life, proving I deserved the roles I earned, all while being honest with myself about my insecurities. I was a young, Hispanic woman optometrist trying to carve my own path in a field of eyecare. I became the first woman member of the Optometric Retina Society, and later, one of the youngest full professor at the college. Many milestone came with resistance and certainly challenges — but I’m proud of who I am today with no excuses. Perhaps I’ve helped pave the way for others to do the same.
Nothing in life is smooth. There are always challenges — but those challenges shape us. I’ve always believed that a challenge can either defeat you or define you. It’s up to us to choose the latter.
When I was young and early in my career, I pushed myself hard. I thought I had to be the best and earn respect. Someone once told me, “You can’t be 40 when you’re only 20,” but I tried anyway.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a creative individual who finds innovative ways to navigate projects and collaborate with others. I thrive even in unstructured or chaotic environments, often discovering solutions by making the most of the resources available to me. I learn by observing others and through personal experience—even when the outcomes aren’t perfect. I perform well under tight deadlines and pressure, driven by an unwavering passion for what I do. However, these strengths can also be my greatest challenges. I am my own toughest critic and often place immense pressure on myself, which can sometimes cause me to lose sight of the bigger picture and what truly matters. My profession, my colleagues, my students, and my patients are what fuel my passion and bring joy to my work. But ultimately, it is my family that I live for—their accomplishments are my greatest pride
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
In the near future the eyecare profession must embrace technological advancements, including innovative diagnostic tools, new treatment options, a deeper understanding of ocular conditions, and the integration of artificial intelligence. We are also witnessing a shift in the scope of practice, as well as moving toward more personalized eyecare and adopting home monitoring devices for patients. At the same time, we must remain aware of the barriers to eyecare that our patients continue to face and consider how we can help overcome them. As the aging population continues to grow, collaborative care will not only become more important—it will be essential. This model can only thrive through mutual respect and the recognition that every professional plays a critical role in patient care. In eyecare, whether it’s optometrists, ophthalmologists, or other healthcare providers, we each of us contributes meaningfully to the patient journey.
We must never become stagnant. There is always room for growth as we evolve, gaining new knowledge, and exploring emerging management options in a constantly changing eyecare landscape. Moreover, we should support others in strengthening their abilities and addressing their challenges. None of us are perfect, and playing even a small part in someone else’s success can be truly empowering in the profession.
I recently decided to merge my health profession with my passion for fitness and education. I am now a certified fitness instructor and currently coach classes at Crunch Oakland Park, with upcoming classes at Crunch Tamarac as well. We will see where this venture takes me in the next 5-10 years.
Contact Info:
- Website: Retina Consultants of Miami (www.retinaconsultantsmiami.com) and Jennifer Loh associates (www.jenniferlohmd.com)
- Studio Website: Crunch Oakland and crunch Tamarac
- Instagram: Diana Shechtman OD FAAO
- Facebook: Diana Rodriguez Shechtman
- Linkedin: Diana Shechtman OD FAAO
- Youtube: Fluorescence Media
