DR. LiSA GONTAREK

Raised in Hampton Roads, Dr. Lisa Gontarek has been an optometrist in Chesapeake for over 20 years. Residency trained in Primary Care and having provided eye care in commercial, multidisciplinary, hospital, and private practice settings, she enjoys helping others to see and feel their very best.

Dr. Lisa is involved in local, state, and national optometric organizations. She was named the 2021 Virginia Optometric Association Keyperson of the Year and the 2022 Virginia Optometric Association Optometrist of the Year. She currently serves on several committees for the VOA and the American Optometric Association and is a passionate advocate for her patients and her profession.

One of Dr. Lisa’s favorite things about being an optometrist is “growing up” with the families that she has served- now working with some second and third generation patients. She cherishes these relationships and looks forward to catching up with her patients each time they come in. When she is not in the office, Dr. Lisa enjoys spending time with her kids, being outdoors (especially at the beach!), and working in her flower beds. You can also find her at the gym, watching college football, or trying to walk the family dog, Archie.

 

Dr. Lisa Installed As Virginia Optometric Association President in May 2021

In May 2021 Dr. Lisa Gontarek was installed as President of the Virginia Optometric Association for a one-year term.

The Virginia Optometric Association (VOA) is a state-wide organization that promotes eye health, vision, and the advancement of Virginia optometry. It works to improve vision care and health of the public as well the methods, education, technology, and competence of its practitioners. Having over 700 members, the VOA is a strong, active organization with progressive leadership.

Dr. Lisa has been involved in optometry since high school. She got started as a technician in her own optometrist’s office, was a member of the American Optometric Student Association in optometry school (has been an AOA member ever since), and was chair of the Young OD Committee for the Wisconsin Optometric Association.

When she relocated to Hampton Roads in 2003, she joined the Tidewater Optometric Society (TOS). Over the years, she remained active, moving up the ranks to eventually be President of TOS. The last 6 years, she has served on the Board of Trustees for the VOA. On May 24, 2021 she was installed as its President.

Click for her Virginian-Pilot column.