Vision Monday’s Most Influential Women in Optical Awards

Between 1991 and 2000, Carene Kunkler served as the vice president of product supply at Lens Crafters. Earning multiple awards for her contributions to the industry, 20/20 Magazine brought attention to Carene Kunkler’s placement on the Most Influential Women in Optical list.

The list originates from a special report by Vision Monday (VM), a fellow professional publication. First released in the July 2003 issue, it explains the achievements of women in the optical industry across multiple roles. Honorees can work at for-profit companies, making eyeglasses and related products, nonprofits, healthcare facilities, and pharmaceuticals.

In modern times, VM creates the nominee pool using reader submissions. It posted a link to its nominee form in early May 2023 and extended the submission deadline to early June rather than closing it on May 31. Readers could submit up to two names in five categories, like Rising Stars, Innovators, and Executive Suite, open to a select list of C-suite positions. VM announces the honorees at the Vision Expo West in Las Vegas in September of the given award year.