The Myopia Collective — a joint initiative between the American Optometric Association and CooperVision — is scaling up its advocacy efforts, adding 22 new change agents and, for the first time, a cohort of 19 student change agents. The program equips participants with free education, resources, and training to champion childhood myopia treatment and push it toward becoming a standard of care across the U.S.

Student advocates are already making an impact. Fourth-year optometry student Noor Alami described going to Capitol Hill to advocate for the Early Detection of Visual Impairment for Children Act, while also fitting myopia-control contact lenses for patients during her clinical rotation. A training workshop is planned for November in Houston, where change agents will learn how to translate new research into practice.

The Collective also held its inaugural Day of Advocacy on June 18, 2026, using the hashtag #MyopiaAdvocacy2026 to amplify awareness through social media and shared stories.

Key Takeaways:

• Student change agents can engage with state legislatures early in their careers, building long-term advocacy pipelines
• The program supports adoption of myopia control interventions (e.g., MiSight contact lenses) in clinical practice
• Early detection legislation is a key policy priority for the Collective

Why it matters: Childhood myopia is a growing global concern, and early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications later in life. By mobilizing both seasoned clinicians and the next generation of eye care providers, the Myopia Collective is building a sustained advocacy force to make myopia management routine care for kids.