About DOCTOR GEIST

Dr. Teri K. Geist is a nationally recognized optometric leader and advocate dedicated to improving patient access to comprehensive eye care. She earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from Pacific University and has spent her career providing patient-centered care while advancing the profession through leadership, education, and advocacy.

As President of the American Optometric Association (AOA), Dr. Geist works to strengthen the role of optometrists as primary eye health care providers and promote greater public awareness of preventive vision care. She emphasizes the importance of early detection, regular comprehensive eye examinations, and helping patients understand the long-term benefits of maintaining healthy vision throughout life.

Dr. Geist has been a strong advocate for children's vision and served as director of the Healthy Eyes Healthy Children grant program, an initiative focused on addressing barriers that prevent children from receiving essential vision care. She also chaired the Nebraska Foundation for Children's Vision and has worked extensively to improve awareness of pediatric eye health in schools and communities.

Throughout her leadership journey, Dr. Geist has promoted collaboration among clinicians, educators, policymakers, and patient advocates. She continues to encourage innovation while maintaining the strong doctor-patient relationships that remain at the center of quality eye care.