Shannon Avena, OD

SPECIALIZATION

Dr. Shannon Avena is an accomplished optometrist with over nine years of experience in primary eye care. She specializes in ocular disease, dry eye management, and routine eye care. With a strong focus on leadership and guest-centered solutions, Dr. Avena is passionate about improving vision and overall quality of life for her guests. Her training and career have focused on providing:

• Comprehensive management of ocular disease, including diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.
• Specialized care for dry eye syndrome, including Prokera lens insertion and advanced treatments.
• Pre- and post-operative care for cataract and LASIK guests.

Dr. Avena is semi-fluent in Spanish, allowing her to connect with a broader range of guests and ensure clear communication. Looking for expert eye care in Michiana? Dr. Avena is here to help you achieve your vision goals based on your personalized eyes and anatomy.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

Dr. Avena holds a Doctorate of Optometry from the InterAmerican University of Puerto Rico School of Optometry, where she developed advanced skills in diagnosing and treating eye diseases. She also earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Indianapolis, building a strong foundation in health sciences.

COMMUNITY/PROFESSIONAL ENGAGEMENT

Dr. Avena is an enthusiastic advocate for community eye care. She volunteers her time with programs like Kindness to Prevent Blindness (KTPB), where she helps provide free vision screenings and glasses to underserved school children. Her dedication to outreach ensures that every child has the tools they need for academic success and a brighter future. She is also actively involved in guest education initiatives, aiming to increase awareness of the critical link between systemic health and vision.

INTERESTING FACT

Dr. Avena has a twin sister who is one minute younger than her, and she spent 15 years as a competitive gymnast before transitioning to a collegiate track and field career. These experiences have instilled discipline, focus, and an enduring passion for teamwork and achievement.

PERSONAL TOUCH

When not in the clinic, Dr. Avena enjoys practicing yoga, listening to true crime podcasts, and exploring new destinations, particularly the Pacific Northwest. She values time spent with family and cherishes her personal and professional journey in serving others.

Quote

“I’ve always been fascinated by the connection between systemic health and vision. As someone who thrives on solving complex problems, I’m passionate about finding answers for guests who feel they’ve been left without solutions. It’s incredibly rewarding to see guests regain not just their sight but their confidence.”

OFFICE

Dr. Avena sees patients in the  Goshen Office and Elkhart Office.