Match Day 2025:
Meet the Emory Eye Center 2026 Optometry Residents
Meet the two optometry residents joining the Emory Eye Center in 2026, discover why they chose this specialty and what makes Atlanta the perfect new home base.
About the Program
As the only tertiary referral ophthalmology center in a city of more than 6 million people, the Emory Eye Center offers an ideal environment for physician education, professional development and continuous learning. The center’s educational program provides opportunities for in-depth training and mentorship for medical students, residents, fellows and doctoral researchers. A strong emphasis is placed on learning from ongoing clinical and research experiences. Residents and fellows gain valuable experience working with diverse patient populations of all ages.
The Emory Eye Center is committed to mentoring and educating the next generation of ophthalmologists through its residency, fellowship, and general education offerings. We also sponsor a post-graduate residency rotation for optometrists who have completed their optometric training.
Ophthalmic Education at Emory
- Medical Student Education
- Ophthalmology Residency
- Optometry Residency
- Ophthalmology Fellowships
- Post-graduate Education and Research
Madison Thurmond
Hometown: Greensboro, North Carolina
I am extremely excited about becoming part of Emory’s esteemed and collaborative eye care team, and look forward to serving Atlanta’s diverse patient population!
- B.S. Biology at University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Doctorate of Optometry at Illinois College of Optometry
On Atlanta: Having previously completed an externship rotation in Atlanta, I am excited to return to the Southeast to enjoy the warm weather, explore the BeltLine, and discover new dining experiences!
On Optometry: I chose this specialty because it offers a unique intersection between eye health and systemic conditions, emphasizing the need for well-rounded optometrists who feel confident diagnosing, treating and managing patients with diverse health needs.
Shannon Gavin
Hometown: Savannah, Georgia
I am most looking forward to being part of an interdisciplinary team of doctors, in addition to deepening my knowledge of ocular disease and specialty contact lenses.
- B.S. Cognitive Neuroscience from The Johns Hopkins University
- Doctorate of Optometry from The New England College of Optometry
On Atlanta: Being from Savannah, I have visited Atlanta many times over the years. I am most looking forward to exploring Atlanta’s art and music scene.
On Optometry: I am particularly interested in ocular disease because there’s an endless amount to learn. I am also very interested in specialty contact lenses because they provide the opportunity to significantly increase patients’ quality of life.
To learn more:
Please visit Ophthalmic Residency Program, Emory Department of Ophthalmology and Emory University
About this story: Published Feb 11, 2025. Written and designed by Ruby Katz.
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