Dr. Houtkin is originally from New Jersey and completed his undergraduate studies at Temple University in Philadelphia. He received his Doctor of Optometry Degree from Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago and went to San Antonio to fulfill a commitment with the Air Force. He is licensed as a Therapeutic Optometrist and Optometric Glaucoma Specialist. He is a member of the American Optometric Association and the Texas Optometric Association and is Board Certified with the American Board of Clinical Optometry. Dr. Houtkin is married to Deborah and they have four children and five grandchildren. He enjoys family gatherings, gardening and working with native Xeriscape plants. He has played accordion and trumpet from a very young age. Having spent over thirty years living in San Antonio, Dr. and Mrs. Houtkin are excited to be living here with the wonderful people of College Station. He is looking forward to many years of caring for their vision in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Undergraduate Education: Colorado State University, BS in Biology, Minor in Anatomy & Neurobiology/. Optometry School: Pacific University College of Optometry. Clinical Certifications and Specialties: I have a special interest in myopia management and specialty contact lenses. I have certifications in Wave, Paragon CRT and MiSight lenses. The reason I became an optometrist is: I experienced an injury that put me in the care of optometrists and ophthalmologists at a very early age. Because of my own experiences and the care, I received, I developed a love for the field. It’s important to me that my patients feel well taken care of and that I continue to learn the best ways to facilitate their vision outcomes. Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy spending time with my 3 boys hiking, tubing, and exploring Colorado.

Undergraduate Education: The George Washington University; Optometry School: Pennsylvania College of Optometry; Clinical Specialties: Primary Care, Contact Lenses, & Ocular Disease; What drives your passion for optometry? Optometry is constantly evolving and I love that it offers a life of continuous learning, growth, and meaningful impact. How are you helping patients live their best lives? See better, live better!

Undergraduate Education: Florida State University, Bachelor, Biological Sciences; Optometry School: University Alabama in Birmingham; The reason I became an optometrist is: Initially it was my attempt to provide for my family however, it has evolved into an opportunity to help my fellow man. In my spare time, I enjoy sports, carpentry, hunting, and farming. My favorite part of helping my patients is providing great vision.

Undergraduate Education: University of Maryland Eastern Shore- Bachelor of Science in Biology; Optometry School: University of Alabama Birmingham School of Optometry; Professional Achievements and Associations: SVOSH, NOSA; Clinical Certifications and Specialities: I enjoy diagnosis and management of diabetic eye disease, glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and anterior segment disorders. The reason I became an optometrist is because I have a strong interest in the anatomy of the eye and strong passion for making quick impact in someone life. My favorite part of helping my patients is the satisfying feeling of making a quick impact in someone vision and the satisfying feeling of being trusted with someone vision. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family, playing sports, and camping

Undergraduate Education: University of Florida. Optometry School: Nova Southeastern University 2015. Professional Achievements and Associations: Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society; American Optometric Association; Florida Optometric Association. Clinical Certifications and Specialties: Residency at Bay Pines VA 2015-2016 Specializing in primary eye care with emphasis in Ocular Disease. The reason I became an optometrist is: I enjoy making a difference in the lives of others. It is incredible that with just a pair of glasses a child’s focus and academic success can be dramatically improved. It is amazing that with a comprehensive eye exam we can detect early signs of systemic conditions and can save the lives of many. The eyes are truly a window to the health and wellbeing of a person. To be a part of this profession is truly an honor. My favorite part of helping my patients is: Being able to help them see their world more clearly with a new pair of lenses and by providing a thorough eye exam to help preserve good health and wellbeing. In my spare time, I enjoy: Exercising, traveling, and exploring different restaurants around the area.

Undergraduate Education: University of Waterloo; Optometry School: Illinois College of Optometry; Professional Achievements/Associations: Illinois Optometric Association, American Optometric Association; Clinical Certifications & Specialties: Primary Care; What drives your passion for optometry? Helping patients see clearly and educating them of the importance of their eye health is extremely rewarding! How are you helping patients live their best lives? I like to customize my recommendations to each patients visual needs based on their work environment and their hobbies. What does providing a transformational eyecare experience mean to you? Ensuring the happiness and satisfaction of all patients. How are you impacting your local community? Whenever the opportunity arises, I like to volunteer my time to improve my local community. Hobbies/Interests: Exploring all the exciting things Chicago has to offer!

Undergraduate Education: George Mason University; Optometry School: Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University; Clinical Certifications & Specialties: Primary Care; What does providing a transformational eyecare experience mean to you? Ensuring the happiness and satisfaction of all patients.

Undergraduate Education: NC State University, Bachelor's of Science; Optometry School: Pennsylvania College of Optometry; Professional Achievements and Associations: American Optometric Society, NC State Optometric Society; Clinical Certifications and Specialities: Certified in MySight contact lenses for treating myopia; The reason I became an optometrist is because I think the eye is interesting and an important part of people’s quality of life. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing board and video games. My favorite part of helping my patients is helping them see their best.