TOA Optometrist of the Year Reflects On Career Journey
Dr. Beth Robinson (’12) almost didn’t become an optometrist.
After graduating from Texas A&M University with a degree in applied mathematics, she worked as an actuarial analyst before realizing the job might not be the best fit.
Inspired by a family friend in the optical business and her childhood optometrist, Dr. Robinson explored a new career path that ultimately led her to the University of Houston College of Optometry, where she discovered the foundation for a career devoted to patient care, advocacy, and leadership.
Earlier this year, Dr. Robinson was named Optometrist of the Year by the Texas Optometric Association (TOA), recognizing her contributions as a clinician, private practice owner, and advocate for optometry across Texas.
“This award means the world to me,” Dr. Robinson said. “It is a reflection of the profession I love and the many mentors, colleagues, friends, and family members who have supported me throughout this adventure.”
The Foundation for a Remarkable Career
Before enrolling at UH Optometry, Dr. Robinson worked at St. Charles Vision in New Orleans, where she gained experience at the front desk and later as a technician and an optician.
“Along the way, I found my passion and my dream,” she said. “I wanted to own a private practice with a boutique optical. I could care for and help people while incorporating my love of fashion – the best of both worlds.”
That passion continued to grow during her time at the college, where Dr. Robinson made connections that continue to shape her career.
“My professors challenged me to think like a doctor and encouraged me to become the best clinician I could be,” she said. “And my classmates became lifelong friends and colleagues as we studied together while also enjoying deck parties and social events.”
Those relationships, she said, gave her a professional family and paved the way for the career that she has today.
Following graduation in 2012, Robinson joined the practice where she completed her final externship, spending several years learning alongside her mentor. In 2020, she opened See B. Seen Eyecare + Optical Bar in Friendswood.
Leading the Profession
Owning her own practice gave Dr. Robinson a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the profession, which ultimately led to her advancement in the Texas Optometric Association.
She now serves as immediate past president and has worked to advocate for optometrists throughout the state.
During her tenure as president, TOA helped pass the nation's first Any Willing Provider legislation for vision plans and successfully opposed multiple “Not-A-Doctor” bills. Equally important to Robinson is preparing the profession's future by engaging optometry students and professional optometric practice societies across Texas.
“If we don't engage the next generation and keep them involved, we won't move forward,” she said. “When we work together, we can make a real difference for our profession and our patients.”
For Robinson, advocacy is just as important as patient care.
“Optometrists can't just focus on the exam room,” Robinson said. “We have to be willing to advocate for our patients and our profession.”
Giving Back to UH Optometry
As the college looks toward the future, Dr. Robinson hopes alumni will continue investing in the institution that helped launch their careers.
“As alumni, we have benefited from the foundation that UH Optometry has built for us,” she said. “Now it's our turn to help build that foundation for the next generation.”
Whether through mentorship, volunteer service or philanthropy, Dr. Robinson believes every graduate has a role to play.
“Not everyone can contribute in the same way, but every contribution – whether it is time, talent, mentorship or financial support – helps move the college forward,” she said.
Looking back, Dr. Robinson said she never imagined her career would take her from an actuarial cubicle to private practice ownership, statewide leadership and recognition as Texas Optometrist of the Year.
“I am incredibly proud to be part of the UH Optometry alumni family and grateful for the career and friendships this profession has given me,” she said. “I hope to continue supporting UHCO, our profession, and the next generation of optometrists. The best is yet to come.”