Learn more about UPIKE and why it is the right choice for you.
See if UPIKE is a good fit for you and take the next steps in becoming a student.
The vision for the College of Dental Medicine is to be known and respected for service, innovation, clinical excellence and interprofessional education.
We are practitioners of the healing arts defining the standard for excellence in optometric education and vision care.
Our D.O. medical school is nationally ranked and recognized for a reputation of excellence in rural medicine and family healthcare. UPIKE’s osteopathy program gives you a clear path to success in the medical field.
Explore our online undergraduate and graduate programs and learn more about earning your degree at UPIKE.
By: Stacey Walters | July 1, 2025
The University of Pikeville Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) proudly announces the residency placements of three Class of 2025 optometry graduates, representing KYCO and other institutions, into KYCO-affiliated and partner programs. These residency opportunities represent a continued commitment to advanced clinical education and training in diverse optometric specialties within KYCO and its extended network.
Residency programs offer recent graduates the opportunity to further hone their clinical expertise, participate in patient-centered care and train under the guidance of experienced mentors. From pediatric care to ocular disease management, KYCO’s affiliated residencies are designed to prepare optometric physicians for impactful careers in both academic and clinical settings.
Claire Vinson, O.D., will begin an ocular disease with an emphasis in anterior segment residency at Milan Eye Center, one of KYCO’s valued training partners.
“I was lucky enough to extern at Milan Eye Center during the Fall 2024 semester and am so happy that I get to spend the upcoming year working with the amazing doctors and staff there,” said Vinson. “The doctors I worked with at Milan created an atmosphere that was so conducive to learning—I always felt supported by them, and they made me feel comfortable asking any and all questions that came up during the clinic. I can’t wait to learn even more from them over the next year as a resident!”
Megan Carry, O.D., has matched with KYCO’s pediatric optometry residency, where she will continue developing her skills in providing high-quality eye care for children.
“I’m very excited to further my career and enhance my skills to provide eye care at the highest standard by completing the pediatric optometry residency at KYCO,” said Carry. “Working with children has been a passion of mine, and I am eager to refine my expertise in diagnosing and treating pediatric patients with unique visual needs. This residency will allow me to develop advanced skills, learn from experienced mentors, and gain hands-on experience in providing comprehensive eye care tailored to children. I look forward to immersing myself in this specialized training and making a meaningful impact in the Eastern Kentucky community.”
M. Dalton Haynes, O.D., will be entering KYCO’s primary care with an emphasis in ocular disease residency, gaining additional experience in advanced procedures and disease management.
“I’m incredibly excited for the year ahead and the many opportunities to learn from the dedicated faculty and staff here,” said Haynes. “What drew me to this residency was its unique hands-on training components, particularly in laser procedures and minor surgical techniques like lump and bump removal. I chose this program because I knew it would challenge me and support my growth into the best optometrist I can be. I’m looking forward to expanding both my clinical knowledge and skill set throughout the year.”
“These residency placements highlight our commitment to improving patient care through strong clinical training and collaborative partnerships,” said KYCO Director of Continuing Education and Residencies and Professor Eilene E. Kinzer, O.D., MEd VFL, FAAO. “These accomplished residents are entering their programs with a strong foundation and a shared commitment to delivering excellent patient care as they continue their professional growth.”
To learn more about KYCO’s residency programs, visit https://www.upike.edu/optometry/kyco-residencies/