nosa National Executive Board
2025-2026
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Optometry School: University of Houston College of Optometry, Class of 2026
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: NOSA gave me a family within optometry. It’s been a place where I’ve found encouragement and lifelong friendships. Serving in leadership has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow as both a student and a future doctor.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : My kids. They remind me why I push through the challenges and keep striving for the bigger picture.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: Step outside your comfort zone, get involved, and remember to enjoy the journey. It can be overwhelming at times, but you’ll never regret the connections you make and the experiences you lean into.
Passions outside of Optometry: I love traveling, exploring new places, and spending time with my children.
Interesting Fact: I have 2 children.
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? : Leading Through the Storm
Let’s Connect!: www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyiwilson
President - JEFFREY WILSON, SR.
Vice President - ANGELICA MOSS
Hometown: Miramar, Florida
Optometry School: The University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry, Class of 2026
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: NOSA introduced me to networking in a way that I wasn’t accustomed to, and in my opinion, how networking should be; connections feel more authentic and familial. Their mission also aligns best with my personal values.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : Remembering that my grandma immigrated to America and raised seven kids on her own. After that, my days tend to feel less tough.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to get done. So try your best, ask all the questions, and don’t be scared to look ‘dumb’. Even if you are the only person in the room who doesn’t know the answer, remember: everyone had to learn it at some point. Don’t delay your moment; that’s where you’ll grow.
Passions outside of optometry: Cooking, trying new foods, and serial hobbying.
Interesting fact: I’m the eldest of six siblings (and of 16 grandkids).
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? : ’Are We There Yet?’
Treasurer - ELIZABETH PHAM
Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Optometry School: New England College of Optometry, Class of 2026
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: The NOA convention vision screening has been very impactful. This annual event really shows me the NOA is dedicated to their mission supporting disadvantaged communities. The NOA shows out every year with boots on the ground working toward accomplishing this goal.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : Remembering all the patients I’ve helped and thinking about how many others I can help.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: Balance is key! Studying can be tough, make sure to also make time for yourself.
Passions outside of optometry: Reading on the beach and jiu jitsu
Interesting Fact: I’m a golfer.
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? : Are We There Yet?
Let’s Connect!: www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wynn-17b361220/
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Optometry School: Indiana University School of Optometry, Class of 2027
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: It's has given me a family and a space within the world of Optometry.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : The Lord didn't bring me this far not to have me finish.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: Prioritize your mental health. There are always assignments or exams to study for, which is why it's important to have time away from school. A club, Bible study, exercise, baking, a long walk—whatever it is, find something that brings you joy and that is restorative
Passions outside of optometry: In my downtime, I like to read books, binge-watch TV Shows, and do my nails.
Interesting fact: For my 22nd Birthday, I got my motorcycle license
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? : Angelica's Diaries: A girls journey from designer to doctor
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY - LAUREN JACKSON
Hometown: Savannah, Georgia
Optometry School: Southern College of Optometry, Class of 2026
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: Not only is NOSA an organization dedicated to increasing diversity in optometry, we are also one big family. The academic, emotional, and spiritual support that I have received from my fellow NOSA members and faculty advisors during my time in optometry school has been key to my personal and professional development. I wouldn't be where I am today without NOSA.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : Knowing that nothing lasts forever.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Ask your faculty, classmates, big sibs, and mentors. There is no such thing as a dumb question.
Passions outside of optometry: Outside of school, my favorite pastimes are to read and bake! I love testing new recipes and sharing with my loved ones.
Interesting fact: My Class of 2026 superlative is “Best Baker in Class.”
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? : Diary of a Mad Black Woman
Let’s Connect!: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenv-jackson
NOA/NOSA MEntorship Liaison - OLIVIA WYNN
Hometown: Griffin, Georgia
Optometry School: MCPHS University School of Optometry, Class of 2026
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: NOSA has been a source of encouragement and purpose, reminding me of the greater impact I want to make in this profession. It has also strengthened my confidence, leadership, and passion for serving others through optometric care.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : On tough days, I think about my loved ones who have always believed in me, even the ones I’ve lost along the way. Remembering them pushes me to care for my patients like they’re someone else’s family, giving my best in every moment.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: Be patient with yourself. You will be learning a lot quickly, and it’s okay to make mistakes — they’re part of growing into a confident clinician.
Passions outside of optometry: Travel, dancing (regular & line), spending time with loved ones, and planning events.
Interesting fact: I’ve had three cars so far, and I’ve named each one after a gemstone, jewel, or gem-inspired name: Jade, Onyx, and Ivory.
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? :
Lens & Legends
Let’s Connect!: www.linkedin.com/in/shirmarie-starks
Historian II - SHIRMARIE STARKS
Hometown: Bronx, New York City
School: MCPHS University School of Optometry, Class of 2026
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: NOSA has continuously provided a genuine, family-like support system throughout my Optometry school journey. Both students and doctors I encounter are always willing to provide wisdom and support no matter what stage I’m at in my journey.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : Knowing I was called for a purpose that’s bigger than the tough moments
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: Solidify your personal “why” and use that to help persevere.
Interesting Fact: I’m (unfortunately) the random fact friend while traveling.
Passions outside of optometry: Fitness
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? : The Real Optometry Students of New England
Let’s Connect!: www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-camara
Hometown: Huntsville, Alabama
Optometry School: University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry, Class of 2028
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: NOSA has definitely introduced me to a plethora of individuals that I have gained extensive knowledge from that I may utilize and grow from.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : The fact that I'm here because I overcame millions of others before I was even born to make it here to day. So I won't let a few tough days slow me down.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: Form study groups and stay on top of your studies. Also, have frequent communication with your instructors.
Passions outside of optometry: Running, reading, hanging with family and friends
Interesting fact: I am "Cross-Dominant" which means I am not strictly right or left-handed, but depending on the task I would switch my left or right hand. Not ambidextrous but somewhere between the two.
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? : Coach Carter
Historian I - SHAFI MUHAMMAD
Hometown: Bronx, New York
School: New England College of Optometry, Class of 2026
How has NOSA shaped your journey thus far?: Positively. I met a lot of good people with similar backgrounds, experiences, and personalities. Something that optometry lacks.
What keeps you motivated on tough days? : God, family, and caffeine.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: Ask yourself if you had a family member with the condition that you're struggling to memorize, "Would I be able to help them?". Maybe that'll help you understand it better.
Passions outside of Optometry: Weightlifting and Service
Interesting Fact: I have an odd yet diverse wardrobe.
If your journey in optometry school were a movie, what would the title be? : That one movie with Joseph Gordon Levitt
Let’s Connect!: www.linkedin.com/in/mario-romano-6a546531b/
Parliamentarian - MARIO ROMANO
Recording Secretary - JILLIAN CAMARA
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Optometry School: SCO, Southern College of Optometry
Why I chose Optometry: During undergrad, I knew healthcare was where I wanted to be but was not sure in what capacity. I decided to pursue a master's degree in biomedical research with encouragement from my undergrad research sponsor...I quickly realized I needed a little more interpersonal interaction; shadowed some healthcare professionals in my area and felt Optometry was the best fit to blend my love for science, health, and community!
Interesting fact: I am an avid Chicago Bears fan!!!
Why NOSA/NOA: NOSA was a source of support, encouragement, and resources during my time as an optometry student. NOSA provided my first opportunity to support this profession on a national stage as NOSA National President. Returning to the NOA is so important as it provides space to return all that was poured into me as student while helping the organization propel into new heights!
NOA Student director -
Brittany Wright, OD, MS
nOA Student Director - Janette Dumas Pepper, OD
Hometown: Tamms, Illinois
Optometry School: UMSL, University of Missouri- St Louis Optometry
Why I chose optometry: My optometrist growing up was able to connect with me better than my pediatrician or dentist. I liked his bedside manner, and I thought I could do what he did. I decided this at the age of 11.
Passions outside of optometry: I am a planner girl! I love planners, stickers, pens, etc.!
Interesting fact: I grew up on a farm.
Why NOSA: When I was in optometry school, I didn't realize the true value of NOSA until the first convention I attended third year. Seeing all of the doctors who looked like me changed my life. The level of community I felt in an occupation where I was a minority was rejuvenating. I wanted to be a part of the organization that fueled that experience.
Any Advice for First-year Optometry Students: You belong! Regardless of how you feel, you belong in the optometric profession.