AVRT Awards
At AVRT, we are proud to recognize exceptional professionals who demonstrate leadership, dedication, and service in the field of Vision Rehabilitation Therapy. Through our annual awards, we honor those whose contributions go beyond expectations and make a lasting impact on the profession.
The Charlyn Allen Award
Honoring Dedication and Excellence in Vision Rehabilitation
The Charlyn Allen Award is named after Charlyn Allen, a visionary leader who worked in rehabilitation teaching for the state of Missouri for over 35 years. She dedicated the last decade of her career as the supervisor for the Missouri Bureau for the Blind. A blind woman herself, Charlyn embodied the commitment, service, and leadership qualities that the AVRT community values.
This prestigious award is presented annually at the AVRT Training Conference Awards Luncheon to a Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (VRT) who demonstrates outstanding professionalism, dedication, and a commitment to advancing the profession.
Award Criteria:
- The nominee must be an ACVREP-certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist.
- The nominee must demonstrate outstanding professionalism and service to the field.
- The nominee must be a member of AVRT.
Nomination Deadline: May 15th
Nomination Contact: Dr. John McMahon
Nomination Email: jspirit211@outlook.com
Download the Charlyn Allen Award Document
The Alice Raftary Emerging Leader Award
Recognizing the Next Generation of Vision Rehabilitation Leaders
The Alice Raftary Emerging Leader Award is named in honor of Alice Raftary, a mentor and inspiration to many in the field of Vision Rehabilitation Therapy. Alice’s lifelong dedication to mentoring and supporting new professionals, as well as her invaluable contributions to both the field and the organization, make this award one of the most meaningful recognitions for newcomers in the profession.
This award is presented to an individual with exceptional leadership potential who has demonstrated a strong commitment to making a lasting impact on Vision Rehabilitation Therapy. It is intended for those early in their careers who have shown promise of future excellence.
Award Criteria:
- The nominee must be an ACVREP-certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist.
- The nominee should have no more than three years of direct professional VRT service.
- The nominee must demonstrate outstanding professionalism and service to the field.
- The nominee must be a member of AVRT.
Nomination Process:
- Nominations should include biographical information, education, training, employment history, and achievements.
- Nominations should be submitted by a supervisor or professional mentor.
- If possible, include a curriculum vitae or resume for the nominee.
Nomination Deadline: May 15th
Nomination Contact: Dr. John McMahon
Nomination Email: jspirit211@outlook.com
The Lenore Dillon Leadership Award
Honoring Outstanding Leadership in Vision Rehabilitation
The Lenore Dillon Leadership Award was created in honor of Lenore Dillon, a dynamic leader in the field of Vision Rehabilitation Therapy who mentored and encouraged countless professionals worldwide. Lenore’s passion for the field was evident in every interaction, and her legacy continues to inspire leaders in rehabilitation today.
This award is presented to individuals who have shown outstanding leadership in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy, whether at the international, national, or regional level.
Award Criteria:
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The nominee must be a current or past member of AVRT.
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The nominee must demonstrate exceptional leadership in an international, national, or regional role.
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The nominee must display a high degree of enthusiasm and passion for Vision Rehabilitation Therapy.
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The nominee must show a commitment to promoting professionalism, continuing education, certification, and mentorship.
Nomination Process:
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Nominations should include a letter outlining the nominee’s biographical information, education, training, employment, leadership qualities, contributions, and achievements.
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Any professional colleague may submit the nomination.
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If possible, include a curriculum vitae or resume for the nominee.
Nomination Deadline: May 15th
Nomination Contact: Dr. John McMahon
Nomination Email: jspirit211@outlook.com
The Outstanding Service Award in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy
Recognizing Extraordinary Service and Dedication
The Outstanding Service Award is presented by the AVRT Board of Directors to a Vision Rehabilitation Therapist who has demonstrated extraordinary dedication, leadership, and service to the field. This award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond the expectations of their role, making significant contributions to the advancement of the profession, AVRT’s mission, and the empowerment of individuals with blindness or low vision.
Award Criteria:
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Nominees must be current or former Vision Rehabilitation Therapists.
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Nominees must be a current AVRT member in good standing (or past member if retired).
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The award recognizes contributions in service to AVRT, advancing the VRT profession, and exceptional service to clients.
Nomination Process:
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The nomination must include details about the nominee’s service to AVRT, advancement of the VRT profession, and exceptional service to clients.
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Nominees are submitted directly by the AVRT Board of Directors.
