A vision from the 葫芦影业 College of Optometry has become reality with a new kiosk at the UH Campus Store in Student Center South. The idea began when Dr. Andrew Archila, associate dean for Clinical Operations, discussed increasing visibility with Timothy Jackson, market leader for the UH System.
鈥淭his kiosk reflects our commitment to providing convenient and accessible care to students, faculty and staff,鈥� said Michael Twa, dean of the 葫芦影业 College of Optometry. 鈥淓ye care is important and this is a visible reminder that we are here to support the health, wellness, and success of our UH community.鈥�
Dr. Achila echoed Twa鈥檚 comments adding that many in the UH community don鈥檛 realize the full range of eye care services the college offers.
Jackson, recalling a time he lost a contact lens and didn鈥檛 know about the optometry school, pitched the idea to Follett, the store鈥檚 parent company. They embraced it.
The kiosk opened in July, featuring frames and sunglasses. Dr. Archila and Optical Services Manager Azanett Bazan collaborated on its design and purpose.
鈥淚t鈥檚 the first of its kind with Follett,鈥� said Jackson. 鈥淚t promotes a great resource
for students.鈥�
The kiosk also offers hands-on retail experience for optometry students. Discounts
include 25% off eyewear for students and up to 50% off for faculty and staff who get
their eye exam at the UH Eye Care Center. QR codes at the kiosk link to appointment
scheduling, and most major insurance plans are accepted.
鈥淲e do more than eye exams,鈥� said Bazan. 鈥淲e handle emergencies, dry eye, contact
lenses鈥攅verything.鈥�
Jackson was the kiosk鈥檚 first customer, buying a pair of 鈥淭ony Stark鈥� sunglasses.
鈥淚鈥檓 a big Marvel fan,鈥� said Jackson.
The College will track kiosk success through visitor numbers, bookings, student feedback,
and sales data.
Next to the kiosk, a new sundries section offers soaps, razors, and over-the-counter
medicines鈥攁n idea inspired by other
UH System campuses. A dedicated Bath & Body Works display has also been added upstairs.
Other updates include:
- A relocated general reading section with seating
- New Apple products
- More non-emblematic gifts (e.g., ESPN basketball hoop)
- Expanded 鈥淢om & Dad鈥� section
鈥淥ur corporate team has been great at bringing in relevant products,鈥� said Jackson.
鈥淲e test ideas and keep improving.鈥�
Visit the UH Campus Store to shop.