#United States #New York #Eye Care #Orbis International #Kathleen Sherwin

New Leadership at Orbis International

Orbis International, a leading global NGO dedicated to the prevention of blindness and the restoration of sight, has welcomed Kathleen Sherwin as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. With a notable career spanning over 25 years in the non-profit and humanitarian sectors, Sherwin is set to steer Orbis towards new heights at a time when eye health has never been more critical.

A Commitment to Eye Health

Sherwin’s extensive background in advocating for health equity, gender equality, and sustainable development aligns perfectly with Orbis's mission of ensuring that everyone has access to the eye care they need to thrive. Her appointment marks a promising new chapter for the organization, especially as the demand for integrated health systems rises globally.

In her own words, Sherwin emphasizes, "Eye health must be understood not as a standalone issue but as a fundamental driver of equity, education, economic stability, and health system readiness." This holistic view will undoubtedly enhance Orbis’s fight against preventable blindness on a worldwide scale.

Background and Experience

Before joining Orbis, Sherwin served as the Chief Strategy and Engagement Officer at Plan International, a global NGO that focuses on children's rights and gender equality. Her leadership roles in prominent organizations, including Women Deliver and Planned Parenthood Federation of America, have been rooted in her unwavering dedication to advancing the health and rights of women and girls. This focus on empowerment will significantly enrich Orbis's vision for global eye health.

John Slattery, Chair of the Board of Directors for Orbis International, expressed his enthusiasm about Sherwin’s leadership: "Kathleen's passion for meaningful change and her unwavering commitment to equity and access strongly resonate with Orbis's mission to eradicate curable blindness globally. We are thrilled to welcome her and look forward to the impact she will help Orbis achieve for communities around the world."

Innovating Eye Care

As the landscape of global health continues to evolve, Sherwin's strategic vision will guide Orbis in enhancing its initiatives. With an array of innovative programs, Orbis has historically focused on providing essential eye care through initiatives like the Flying Eye Hospital—a mobile teaching hospital that brings eye care and education directly to communities in need.

The organization also utilizes cutting-edge technology to expand its reach, including the award-winning Cybersight platform that enables telemedicine consultations and e-learning opportunities for eye care professionals worldwide. This approach not only enhances service delivery but also fosters a sustainable ecosystem for eye care.

Future Aspirations

Sherwin’s vision for Orbis is rooted in a future where quality eye care is accessible to all, contributing meaningfully to individuals' potential to learn, work, and live fulfilling lives. The organization aims to train local eye care professionals, ensuring communities can rely on homegrown expertise rather than external aid.

The statistics are alarming: around 1.1 billion people suffer from vision problems, with a significant percentage of these issues being preventable with timely intervention. Under Sherwin's leadership, Orbis plans to tackle these challenges head-on, reinforcing their commitment to integrating eye care into broader health and development objectives.

Conclusion

Kathleen Sherwin's leadership marks a pivotal turning point for Orbis International, as the organization seeks to leverage her rich experience in health equity and global development. The future promises increased focus on eye health as a critical aspect of global health, reflecting Sherwin’s dedication to fostering a world where everyone can benefit from adequate eye care, free from preventable blindness. To learn more about Orbis International and its initiatives, visit orbis.org.