Alumni Profile
Meet Annie Grubbs
Reynolds alum, Annie Grubbs, embodies the spirit of dedication, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning. With over two decades of experience in the optical field, Annie's journey from student to business owner exemplifies the transformative power of vocational education and the endless possibilities it offers.
Annie's educational voyage began at Reynolds, where she pursued coursework in Opticianry, driven by her fascination with the intricacies of vision care. Graduating in 2003 with an Associate in Opticianry, Annie's commitment to excellence propelled her to achieve national certifications, including the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE), along with securing her state license. This foundational education equipped her with the expertise and skills necessary to embark on her professional journey.
Continuing her academic pursuits, Annie furthered her education receiving a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a minor in Management from Old Dominion University in 2005. This multidisciplinary approach not only broadened her knowledge base but also nurtured her managerial acumen, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors.
Throughout her career, Annie's trajectory has been marked by versatility and passion. From her initial jobs in the optical field to a brief role as an adjunct in the Opticianry program at Reynolds, Annie's journey reflects her commitment to both her craft and the community she serves.
In 2021, Annie seized a golden opportunity and purchased an existing small business in Kilmarnock, Virginia. Under her leadership, the establishment, now known as Stylish Eyes, has blossomed into a thriving hub for eyewear aficionados, catering to the diverse needs of the local community. As the owner, manager, and licensed optician, Annie's innovative approach and dedication to customer satisfaction have earned her widespread acclaim and loyalty.
Her advice to students is, “Finish school, graduate or sit for the license, work hard, gain the experience and knowledge in your field, and know that your path is never ending. You may end up being owner, manager, president, or CEO one day!”
Annie's success story is an inspiration for aspiring opticians and entrepreneurs alike. Her advice resonates deeply with the spirit of perseverance and continuous growth.
“Trades are a wonderful path to take. There will always be an opportunity out there. I have NEVER had difficulty finding a job, an open position, or employment in my field, Annie said. Encouraging students to embrace vocational education as a springboard to success, Annie emphasizes the invaluable lessons gleaned from hands-on experience and the limitless opportunities available in the trades. “As a teenager, not knowing what I wanted to do after high school, I am so glad I chose a trade path. It may put you on a road to further your education after community college, or you may be ready to jump into the workforce. Either way, I don't think you will regret it!”
Annie's commitment to her craft and community is reflected in her support for vocational education. As an advocate for alternative paths to success, she champions the invaluable role of community colleges in nurturing talent and fostering economic empowerment. Her unequivocal endorsement of vocational education underscores its pivotal role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow and building resilient communities.
Annie’s journey from Reynolds alumna to successful business owner epitomizes the transformative impact of vocational education and the boundless opportunities it offers. Reflecting on her journey, Annie said, “Here I am, over 20 years later, doing the same thing I learned as a student at Reynolds in 2002. My skills have improved over the years, through experience and age, but it all started as a student at Reynolds.”
Her story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and lifelong learning in shaping a fulfilling career and making a positive difference in the world. Through her dedication to excellence and commitment to community service, Annie continues to inspire and empower others to reach for the stars and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.
Annie's educational voyage began at Reynolds, where she pursued coursework in Opticianry, driven by her fascination with the intricacies of vision care. Graduating in 2003 with an Associate in Opticianry, Annie's commitment to excellence propelled her to achieve national certifications, including the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE), along with securing her state license. This foundational education equipped her with the expertise and skills necessary to embark on her professional journey.Continuing her academic pursuits, Annie furthered her education receiving a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a minor in Management from Old Dominion University in 2005. This multidisciplinary approach not only broadened her knowledge base but also nurtured her managerial acumen, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors.
Throughout her career, Annie's trajectory has been marked by versatility and passion. From her initial jobs in the optical field to a brief role as an adjunct in the Opticianry program at Reynolds, Annie's journey reflects her commitment to both her craft and the community she serves.
In 2021, Annie seized a golden opportunity and purchased an existing small business in Kilmarnock, Virginia. Under her leadership, the establishment, now known as Stylish Eyes, has blossomed into a thriving hub for eyewear aficionados, catering to the diverse needs of the local community. As the owner, manager, and licensed optician, Annie's innovative approach and dedication to customer satisfaction have earned her widespread acclaim and loyalty.
Her advice to students is, “Finish school, graduate or sit for the license, work hard, gain the experience and knowledge in your field, and know that your path is never ending. You may end up being owner, manager, president, or CEO one day!”
Annie's success story is an inspiration for aspiring opticians and entrepreneurs alike. Her advice resonates deeply with the spirit of perseverance and continuous growth.
“Trades are a wonderful path to take. There will always be an opportunity out there. I have NEVER had difficulty finding a job, an open position, or employment in my field, Annie said. Encouraging students to embrace vocational education as a springboard to success, Annie emphasizes the invaluable lessons gleaned from hands-on experience and the limitless opportunities available in the trades. “As a teenager, not knowing what I wanted to do after high school, I am so glad I chose a trade path. It may put you on a road to further your education after community college, or you may be ready to jump into the workforce. Either way, I don't think you will regret it!”
Annie's commitment to her craft and community is reflected in her support for vocational education. As an advocate for alternative paths to success, she champions the invaluable role of community colleges in nurturing talent and fostering economic empowerment. Her unequivocal endorsement of vocational education underscores its pivotal role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow and building resilient communities.
Annie’s journey from Reynolds alumna to successful business owner epitomizes the transformative impact of vocational education and the boundless opportunities it offers. Reflecting on her journey, Annie said, “Here I am, over 20 years later, doing the same thing I learned as a student at Reynolds in 2002. My skills have improved over the years, through experience and age, but it all started as a student at Reynolds.”
Her story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and lifelong learning in shaping a fulfilling career and making a positive difference in the world. Through her dedication to excellence and commitment to community service, Annie continues to inspire and empower others to reach for the stars and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.