The Global Specialty Lens Symposium (GSLS) is seeking nominations for its two awards that will be given out at the 2026 GSLS.

The GSLS Award of Excellence is given to a distinguished clinician, scholar, and/or scientist to recognize his or her lifelong achievements in the field of contact lenses, especially as they relate to specialty contact lenses. The individual(s) selected are recognized for their contributions to the field of contact lenses, including development, practice, translation of knowledge and education, and scholarly activity, all of which moved the field forward in seminal ways.

The GSLS Rising Star Award is intended to recognize an emerging leader in the field of cornea and contact lenses. The ideal candidate is within 10 years of receiving their degree or residency training and must demonstrate substantial contributions to the field outside of what might normally be expected in this early phase of one’s career.

Nominations should include the names, title/affiliation/contact information, and a summary (up to 500 words) of why the nominee should be considered for the GSLS Award of Excellence or Rising Star Award. A copy of the nominee’s curriculum vitae must also be included. All nominations are due by Monday, June 16, and should be sent to GSLS Chair Jason Nichols, OD, MPH, PhD, at jason.nichols@conexiant.com.