Christine Allison

Christine Allison is a Professor of Optometry and Director of Residency Programs at the Illinois College of Optometry (ICO). She earned her Doctorate of Optometry from SUNY College of Optometry and completed a residency in binocular vision and pediatric optometry at ICO. Dr. Allison works at the Illinois Eye Institute and a Chicago Public Schools-affiliated clinic, with clinical expertise in pediatric optometry, vision therapy, and care for special populations. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD), and holds multiple prestigious fellowships.

• Education: BA (University of Notre Dame), OD (SUNY College of Optometry)
• Leadership Roles: Past-President of COVD and Illinois Optometric Association
• Professional Affiliations: World Council of Optometry, AAO, AOA

Dr. Allison’s research focuses on binocular vision, vision therapy, and visual processing in special populations, including sensory integration dysfunction and post-traumatic vision disorders. Her work has been published in journals such as Optometry and Journal of Optometric Visual Development, often addressing clinical outcomes and quality-of-life improvements. Recent publications highlight amblyopia treatment, refractive error epidemiology, and neuro-optometric rehabilitation.

Scientific Awards and Honors include:

• 2020 President's Award, COVD
• 2010 President’s Volunteer Service Award
• 2008 Advocacy Leadership Award from AOA
• 2003 Special Olympics Gold Medal Award
• 2001 COVD Certificate of Appreciation

Dr. Allison serves as Clinical Director for the Special Olympics Lions Club International Opening Eyes Program and has held leadership roles in professional organizations. She has delivered numerous national and international lectures, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and clinical innovation.