Dr. Shane Benally, Academy Class of 2009 and a Diné optometrist who splits his practice between Santo Domingo Pueblo and Santa Fe, has been named 2026 Young Optometrist of the Year by the New Mexico Optometric Association.
The award goes annually to an optometrist with fewer than 10 years in practice who has shown leadership and service in the field. Benally sees patients at Kewa Pueblo Health Corporation in Santo Domingo Pueblo and at Ultimate Eye Care in Santa Fe.
Benally is one of a small number of Diné optometrists. He has presented to the University of New Mexico Optometry Club and shared his experience with students.
“I feel honored to be able to represent my fellow Indigenous people and encourage Native students to pursue a career in eye care,” Benally said. “I want Native health profession students to know that they belong because their representation leads to better care in Indigenous communities.”
