Barbara Brown

Dr. Barbara Brown (pictured), manager of student and special services in the College of Optometry at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, was named one of the 2009 Most Influential Women in Optical by Vision Monday, an eye-care trade publication. She was chosen in the mentor category and nominated by 17 UMSL optometry students. In their nomination, they wrote,”Dr. Brown is not only a mentor in optometry; she guides us through every aspect of school, from the entrance interview process before enrollment to the licensing process as we leave school and apply for jobs.”

Brown earned a doctorate in optometry in 1988 and bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 1984, both from UMSL. “I am inspired by the entering class and the graduating class every year,” Brown told Vision Monday. “I am inspired by their plans, dreams and their desire to become something different than they are today.”