Dr. Valencia Robertson Wells Makes History as First Black Woman to Lead the Alabama Optometric Association

This is exactly the kind of progress worth celebrating!

Dr. Valencia Robertson Wells has officially been elected President of the Alabama Optometric Association (ALOA) — marking a powerful and historic first. She now stands as the first Black woman ever to lead the more than 120-year-old organization, a major milestone in both Alabama’s medical community and the nation’s eye-care field (The Demopolis Times).

A proud native of Demopolis, Alabama, Dr. Wells has long been recognized as a visionary in her field. She is not only an award-winning optometrist, but also a public health advocate, mentor, and community leader. Over the years, her work has reached far beyond the walls of her clinic — from organizing free vision screenings for low-income families to advocating for stronger state health policies that promote equitable access to eye care (Essence).

According to The Demopolis Times, Dr. Wells has built her career on the belief that “good vision is more than sight — it’s opportunity.” Her leadership reflects this mission, especially as she continues to mentor young students and inspire other women of color to pursue careers in optometry.

Her election isn’t just a personal victory — it represents a historic correction in a field that has long lacked diversity. National data from the American Optometric Association show that Black optometrists account for only about 2% of professionals in the United States, underscoring how deeply rooted systemic barriers in education and healthcare still are (AOA, 2023).

By stepping into this top leadership role, Dr. Wells is broadening the vision for what’s possible in the profession. Her presence at the helm of the Alabama Optometric Association signals a more inclusive future for eye care in the state — one that recognizes the importance of representation, mentorship, and equitable service delivery.

In her new role, Dr. Wells plans to focus on increasing access to care in rural areas, expanding optometric education programs, and strengthening community outreach partnerships with local schools and clinics (The Demopolis Times). Her goals align with a growing national movement toward inclusive healthcare leadership, as emphasized by the National Optometric Association, which advocates for representation as a cornerstone of better patient outcomes.

Dr. Wells’ achievement sends a clear message: when barriers fall, communities rise. Her leadership isn’t just about policy — it’s about visibility, empowerment, and creating pathways for the next generation of optometrists to see themselves reflected at every level of the profession.

Congratulations, Dr. Wells — the future of eye care in Alabama just became that much clearer. We see you.