Reade Fahs to Receive the 2027 Person of Vision Award at Vision Expo

Reade Fahs Named 2027 Person of Vision Award Recipient

In a significant announcement, Prevent Blindness has chosen Reade Fahs, Executive Chairman of National Vision, Inc., as the recipient of the 2027 Person of Vision Award. This prestigious recognition, aimed at individuals who promote the importance of eye health, will be celebrated during a gala event scheduled for March 10, 2027, at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas as part of the Vision Expo festivities. The event not only honors Fahs but also serves as a crucial fundraiser to support Prevent Blindness's vital initiatives focused on eye health and prevention of blindness.

The Person of Vision Award is awarded annually to individuals who exemplify leadership in the optical sector and demonstrate a commitment to making vision care accessible to all. Fahs was selected by an all-volunteer committee comprised of notable figures from the optical industry. Jeff Todd, President and CEO of Prevent Blindness, remarked, “Reade Fahs embodies the spirit of the Prevent Blindness Person of Vision Award. His lifelong dedication to enhancing global vision care and improving lives through sight inspires us all.”

Fahs's impressive journey in the optical industry spans over 40 years, starting in a junior marketing role at LensCrafters in 1986. He quickly rose through the ranks, later becoming the Managing Director of VisionExpress UK and Ireland in 1997, and subsequently the CEO of an early-stage European Internet start-up, FirstTuesday, in 1999. In 2002, he took the helm of National Vision, a company he led for 23 years before transitioning to the role of Executive Chairman in 2025. Under his leadership, National Vision has expanded into one of the leading optical retail chains in the United States, with brands such as America's Best, Eyeglass World, Vista Optical, and DiscountContacts.com.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Fahs is also praised for his philanthropic efforts in extending eye care services to underserved communities around the globe. His commitment is reflected in his service on the boards of VisionSpring and RestoringVision, which have collectively provided over 50 million prescription eyeglasses worldwide during his tenure as chairman of VisionSpring.

The upcoming gala will also feature other members from the Persona of Vision Committee, including Deb Bulken of EssilorLuxottica and a host of high-profile industry leaders from various optical organizations. Recent awardees of the Person of Vision honor also include notable industry professionals like Jim McGrann of Advancing Eyecare and Howard Purcell of the New England College of Optometry, underscoring the high standards and profound contributions recognized by Prevent Blindness.

Fahs expressed his gratitude for receiving the award, stating, “I’m honored to be recognized by Prevent Blindness and humbled to join such an outstanding group of past recipients. It has been a privilege to work with those who believe that better vision opens doors and improves lives.” As the date of the gala approaches, the enthusiasm in the optical community is palpable, with many looking forward to celebrating Fahs’s impactful contributions and supporting Prevent Blindness’s wide-reaching efforts.

For those interested in attending the gala or seeking sponsorship opportunities, the Prevent Blindness website provides detailed information and contact options. Through events like these, Prevent Blindness continues its vital work, reminding us all of the importance of access to quality vision care for all individuals.

Founded in 1908, Prevent Blindness has strived to educate and advocate for eye health while striving to eliminate preventable blindness across the United States. With over a century of commitment to eye health, the organization has become a leading voice in promoting awareness, research, and services that protect and enhance vision.

For more details on the award, gala tickets, and sponsorships, please reach out to Albert Muci via email or visit their website at PreventBlindness.org/personofvision.