New England College of Optometry

Our PRISM student group joyfully represented NECO at last weekend’s Boston Pride Parade. Thanks to everyone who participated!

Same mission. Just with a little more *glow-up.* 🔥👁️

Go Carissa Fleming!

Advocacy Is Urgent Work | Women In Optometry Dr. Carissa Fleming, a 2025 grad, chose to step into leadership and advocacy to help ensure that "policy reflects reality."

After 38 years of unwavering dedication, Tec Neguse, our Manager of Buildings, Grounds & Security, officially stepped into retirement this spring. Tec’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Having fought for the independence of his homeland (Eritrea), Tec arrived in the U.S. in 1985 with little more than his freedom. Since joining NECO in 1988, he has seen the college through decades of milestones—working under six presidents, maintaining the historic splendor of our five Gilded Age mansions, and even raising his family within the campus walls during the 1990s.

To ensure Tec’s spirit of service continues to inspire future generations, we are proud to announce the establishment of the Tecleab Neguse Scholarship, to be awarded to a student who embodies Tec’s work ethic and heart for others.

We invite our alumni and friends to help us reach our goal of honoring a truly exceptional colleague. Your generosity will ensure that Tec’s lasting impact on NECO endures—just as enduring as the buildings he so thoughtfully cared for. Learn more: https://ow.ly/3mUS50Z7Fuw

Ten NECO students were accepted into Clasp cohorts this year. Clasp helps students turn education into impact by connecting them with employers who invest in their future and help pay down their student debt. Landing in a cohort means these students have landed jobs before they graduate with an employer who is committed to helping repay their student loans. In total, these employers have committed over $2.3M in loan repayment to NECO students! Learn more about Clasp and other loan repayment options: https://ow.ly/Gg2050Z7iia

From Michael Huang, NECO Class of 2027: As I wrap up my third year of optometry school and prepare to set off on my final-year clinical rotations, I have also been reflecting on the journey that has brought me to where I am now: the late nights I spent studying, the patients I've encountered, the new friendships I've forged. Undoubtedly, I have grown both personally and professionally throughout my time at NECO, and I have also seen firsthand how my training translates directly into patient care that makes a real and lasting impact.

As someone who believes deeply in NECO's mission and purpose, please consider making a donation to ensure this profession remains accessible to the most capable and deserving. Any amount can make a difference to support our Fiscal Year-End Campaign. You can make a gift here: https://ow.ly/Im8Q50Z6aBW

It's hard not to feel immense pride for these 127 graduates. Watch out, world: here come the NECO graduates of 2026!

It’s time to come back to Beacon Street! We are thrilled to invite our alumni to NECO’s annual Alumni Reunion on Saturday, November 7, 2026. Whether it’s been five years or fifty since you last walked our halls, this day is all about celebrating our shared history and looking toward NECO’s exciting future. This year, we are celebrating classes ending in 1 or 6 (plus 2025 for their first reunion). Registration: https://ow.ly/1Wz550Z4r0Q