Welcome to our captivating podcast episode, where we explore the future of optometry, including its evolving landscape, educational opportunities, diversity, and future prospects. Our esteemed guest is Dr. Michael Bacigalupi, former Founding Dean of the Kentucky College of Optometry. Dr. Bacigalupi’s journey from the sunny avenues of South Florida to the esteemed corridors of academic leadership personifies inspiration and forward thinking in optometry. Dr. Bacigalupi dives deep into the multifaceted dimensions of optometry, revealing the passion, challenges, and prospects that shape this dynamic field. Dr. Bacigalupi’s experiences, from pivotal moments that steered his career to his significant roles in shaping the next generation of optometrists, offer a profound glimpse into the future of optometry. What’s Covered: Who is Dr. Michael Bacigalupi? The Path to Academic Leadership in OptometryThe Value of Optometry ResidenciesChallenges in the Optometry Applicant PoolAddressing Misconceptions and Reality of Optometrists’ DemandPriorities for the Future of Optometry Who is Dr. Michael Bacigalupi? Dr. Darryl Glover: Today, we delve into topics of education, diversity, and opportunity. The big questions are: Who has the solutions? How can we propel our profession forward? And most importantly, how can we be the catalyst for change? Friends and family, it gives me immense pleasure to introduce a very special guest – the incomparable Dr. Bacigalupi. This evening promises to be enlightening, problem-solving, and absolutely real. I’m thrilled to have you on the show, Dr. Bacigalupi. Before we dive in, I think it’s important for our audience to get to know you better, though I’m already familiar with your background. So, if you could, please share with us where you’re from, your journey into optometry, and what drives your passion in this field. And let’s not forget a fun fact – everyone loves those. Let’s kick off this exciting conversation, my friend. Dr. Michael Bacigalupi Dr. Michael Bacigalupi: Optometry has been a lifelong passion for me. In fact, in my high school yearbook, under my senior picture, it reads ‘pre-optometry.’ My entire life has been dedicated to this profession, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. Absolutely, I’m glad to share. I was raised in South Florida, specifically in Fort Lauderdale. As someone who thrives in warm weather, my recent experience with the cold in Kentucky has only reaffirmed my preference for warmth! Growing up, my father was a mailman who braved the intense South Florida...