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09/30/2026

Welcome Our New Board Members

The Opticians Association of Ohio is excited to welcome two new members to our Board of Directors! Jennifer Rhines will be stepping into the role of Secretary/Treasurer, while Whitney Lavoy joins the board as a Trustee. Both bring valuable experience, fresh perspectives, and a commitment to Ohio’s optical community. We’re excited to have them on board and look forward to the contributions they’ll make as the OAO continues to grow and serve our members. 

Get to know Jennifer and Whitney below!

 

"For the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow my career with Europa Eyewear, where I work as a Territory Manager. I truly enjoy what I do, especially the relationships I’ve built along the way and the chance to work with so many wonderful people. My career is an important part of my life, and I feel very fortunate to be doing something I genuinely enjoy.
 
Outside of work, my family means absolutely everything to me. I’ve been with my husband since I was 15 years old, and we’ve now been together for about 28 years. We have a beautiful daughter, Zoe, and I’m also very close with my beautiful niece, Leanna, who I help my sister care for. I’m also a proud cat mom to two cats that I love dearly. 
 
I’m very thankful for Opticians Association of Ohio and for the opportunity to be involved with such a wonderful organization. I’m especially excited and honored to step into the role of Secretary -Treasurer. Between my family, my work, and the relationships Ive built in the optical community, my life is very full- and I truly wouldn’t have it any other way."
 
 

"I grew up in Dellroy, Ohio, a small farming community with just one optometrist. My connection to the optical world began early. With most of my closest relatives wearing glasses, it seemed inevitable that I would eventually need them too. But my interest in vision and eyewear truly took root through an unexpected source: the children’s book Watch Out, Ronald Morgan!

As I grew, so did my passion for optics. I moved to Youngstown for college, where I earned an associate degree in Social Studies and began my optical career with JCPenney Optical.

From the very beginning of my career, I have loved helping people see better while also giving them the opportunity to express their personality through their eyewear. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work in several areas of the optical profession, including retail, private practice, and the nonprofit sector. Each experience has broadened my perspective and strengthened my commitment to improving access to quality vision care.

I am excited to bring my knowledge, experience, and lifelong passion for optics to my work with the OAO. I look forward to collaborating with others in our profession, supporting the communities we serve, and helping bring better vision to all."

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