by Tamarreo Tatum
Mallory Wright, OD, former primary care resident at the UAB School of Optometry, was named 2025’s Best in Optometry Resident by Optometry Times. The award recognizes her exceptional performance in clinical care, teaching and leadership during her residency.
Before joining the school of optometry, Wright discovered her passion for academia and optometry through formative experiences with teachers and shadowing practicing optometrists during her undergraduate years.
“I’ve worn glasses and contact lenses since the third grade and always loved going to the eye doctor,” Wright said. “When I shadowed my eye doctor in college, I loved how positive and uplifting the profession is and how you can make a difference in people’s lives with a simple pair of glasses.”
During her residency, Wright spent much of her time teaching in clinical and lab settings, driven by a lifelong love of learning and a deep appreciation for the educators who inspired her.
“I enjoy taking complicated topics and simplifying them for students, so they experience those ‘light bulb’ moments when everything clicks,” she said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to play a role in shaping the next generation of optometrists.”
Sims, who nominated her for the award, shared that in terms of teaching, Wright served as an instructor for the clinical skills course, where second-year students learned how to perform comprehensive eye exams. She also offered guidance on practicals and preparation for the NBEO. During the spring and summer terms, she served as an attending in both the primary care and community eye care clinics.
“She is a non-intimidating presence whom students gravitate to for assistance,” said Janene Sims, OD, PhD, her residency mentor and award nominator.
Reflecting on the honor, Wright said, “This award means so much to me and wouldn’t have been possible without Dr. Janene Sims’ mentorship. She would always stop what she was doing and pick up the phone or run down the hall when I needed help. She constantly reminds me to be confident in myself and my decisions.”
Wright’s commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and mentorship reflects the core values of UABSO and its mission to train compassionate, skilled optometrists who lead with integrity and purpose.