On December 6 of last year, Dr. Colip attended an exclusive reception hosted by Senator Tammy Duckworth at Chicago Cut Steakhouse. With around 50 invitees, the setting allowed for candid, direct conversation. 

Dr. Colip reconnected with the senator and discussed important optometric issues, including the upcoming vote on the Elizabeth Dole VA Healthcare Benefits and Improvement Act. Dr. Colip stressed the need for pay equity for doctors of optometry within the VA, and Senator Duckworth expressed her support. Just five days after the meeting, she signed on as the final co-sponsor of the bill, helping push it through to passage. 

A long-time advocate for ICO, she served as our commencement speaker and received an honorary degree in 2013. 

A big thank you to Senator Duckworth for her continued support of optometry and to Dr. Colip for advocating for our profession.