Helen M. Gabriel

Helen M. Gabriel, OD, FAAO, is a Part-Time Associate Professor of Optometry at Illinois College of Optometry (ICO). She serves as attending staff in the Pediatric/Binocular Vision Service, Primary Care Service, and the Chicago Public Schools-based community program at the Illinois Eye Institute. She teaches and coordinates laboratory sessions for optometry courses focused on accommodation, binocular vision, and physical diagnosis.

• Education: OD from Illinois College of Optometry (1989), Primary Care Residency at Northeastern State University College of Optometry (1990), BS from University of Illinois-Chicago (1979).

Her research interests span binocular vision, pediatric optometry, ocular microbiology, and children’s vision. She has contributed to studies on convergence insufficiency, sensory integration dysfunction, and microbial contamination in ophthalmic products.

Her publications highlight trends in binocular vision research, visual rehabilitation for brain injury, and ocular microbiology. Key subfields include pediatric visual complications, infectious eye diseases, and diagnostic methodologies.

• Scientific Awards: Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, Associate Member of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, and active memberships in multiple optometric and clinical associations.

Dr. Gabriel has been affiliated with Illinois College of Optometry since 1990. She contributes to clinical education, community outreach programs, and interdisciplinary research collaborations within the Illinois Eye Institute.