Dr. Lori Vollmer earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of South Florida in 1990. Following graduation, she worked as a certified ophthalmic technician for eight years until pursuing a career in optometry. She graduated with honors and distinction from Nova Southeastern University, College of Optometry in 2002. She completed a residency in ocular disease at the Aran Eye Associates in Miami, Florida in July 2003. She completed a Masters’ of Science in Nutrition from the Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2018 with an emphasis in Sports Nutrition.
Prior to joining Center For Sight, Dr. Vollmer worked in academia at Nova Southeastern University for 16 years, holding the rank of Professor, where she served as an Attending Physician in the Primary Care and Diabetes and Macula Clinics. She also served in college administration as the Director of Residency Programs for the College of Optometry for 13 years, mentoring and supervising residents. Her classroom teaching experience included a course in Nutrition and Ocular Health as well as guest lectures in anterior and posterior segment ocular disease.
Dr. Vollmer has several published articles in optometric journals and has delivered numerous continuing education lectures nationally and internationally in ocular disease, trauma, medical and surgical management and nutrition. She also serves as a reviewer for optometric journal publications.
She is a Fellow in the American Academy of Optometry, Fellow in the Optometric Retina Society, member of the Optometric Wellness and Nutrition Society, member of the American Optometric Association, Member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and member of the Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (FAND). In Florida, Dr. Vollmer served on the Board of the Broward County Optometric Association for over 10 years and is a Past President of the BCOA. Dr. Vollmer also serves as a team chair consultant for the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE).
Dr. Vollmer is married to Dr. Joseph Sowka, who is also an optometric physician at Center for Sight. Her hobbies include exercising and spending time with her animals.