Edward H. Kosnoski, O.D., of Kent, Wash. was recently named the 2006 Doctor of Optometry of the Year by the Optometric Physicians of Washington (OPW) at their annual convention held in Spokane, Wash.  Dr. Kosnoski has been a member of the OPW since 1970 and has private practices of: Kent Vision Clinic, Fairwood Vision Clinic (Renton) and Auburn Vision Clinic.

The Doctor of Optometry of the Year is awarded annually by the OPW to an optometric physician who has demonstrated outstanding service to his/her community, the visual welfare of the public, and the eye care profession.  The only professional association in Washington State that is affiliated with the American Optometric Association (AOA), OPW has 13 statewide professional societies with a membership of more than 560 optometric physicians.  Dr. Kosnoski is a member of the King County Society.

As an excellent eye care provider, past-president and president for the OPW and King County Society and member of numerous committees for both the OPW and AOA, Dr. Kosnoski is committed to improving not only the vision of his patients, but also the profession of optometry.  In 1970 Kosnoski started the Low Vision Clinic at the Optometric Center of Seattle, serving as Director from its inception until 1975.

“I am very honored to be chosen from the field of distinguished colleagues considered for this award,” said Dr. Kosnoski.  “The practice of optometry has given so much to me over the years.  I am grateful to be a member of an organization like OPW and a representative of optometry.”

Dr. Kosnoski received his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry from Pacific University College of Optometry in 1968.  Dr. Kosnoski then received a post-graduate degree in low vision from the Los Angeles College of Optometry.  Kosnoski began his practice on the low vision staff at the Los Angeles College of Optometry from 1969 to 1970 when he returned to Washington and joined the Kent Vision Clinic, which he became owner of in 1977.

A graduate of Hoquiam High School, Dr. Kosnoski has been an active member of his community, serving on the Kent School Board for eighteen years and the Board of Directors for the Community Services for the Blind. Dr. Kosnoski has also served as an instructor of Optics and Eye Anatomy for the Tacoma Community College Paraoptometric Technology program and as a member of the Board of Directors for the Community Services for the Blind.          

The mission of the Optometric Physicians of Washingtonis to advance, improve and enhance the vision care and eye health of the public and to promote the continued development of the profession of optometry.

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Contact Information
•	Lisa Cargill OPW Communications Representative (509) 444-2350 lisac@desautelhege.com