Diva of the Week – Dorothy Brodmann, OD
Meet Diva of the Week – Dr. Dorothy Brodmann, a trailblazer with 35 years of experience, who has served on multiple boards, mentored students, and embraced change at every stage of her career. From selling her practice and navigating loss to launching a new chapter between Vermont and Florida, Dr. Brodmann shares her inspiring story of reinvention, resilience, and rising into leadership as an Optometry Divas Ambassador.
| 1. Tell us a little bit about you? | |
I’ve been a practicing optometrist for 35 years, and throughout that time, I’ve proudly served on several optometry boards and mentored students from various schools as a preceptor. My life is guided by intentional goal-setting—in ten-year increments. Every decade brings growth, reflection, and reinvention. In the last decade (2014–2024), I experienced profound life changes: I lost both of my parents, sold my practice to private equity, moved an hour away from my home, and bought my first travel trailer. That’s when I briefly embraced the nomadic life, earned another state license, and joined the Vermont Optometric Association Board. Now, from 2025 to 2030, I’ve kicked things off by relocating to Florida while continuing to fly back and forth to Vermont. My traveling shoes are always packed, especially for Europe! I love listening to and advising younger ODs—your passion fuels me. And though we may not have wings, women in optometry today are soaring like never before. I couldn’t be prouder to be part of that movement. Recent Milestone: | |
| 2. What made you decide to become in Optometrist? | |
Optometry offered the perfect combination of science, service, and meaningful patient connection. I’ve always valued the opportunity to not only improve people’s vision but also mentor and support those entering this amazing profession. | |
| 3. What Optometry school did you go to? | |
Southern College of Optometry | |
| 4. Where do you currently practice and do you offer any specialty services? | |
While I’ve sold two private practices in my career, I remain actively involved in optometry through my work with the Vermont Optometric Association Board and licensure in multiple states. I continue to advise and support colleagues, mentor students, and advocate for our profession. | |
| 5. Why did you join Optometry Divas? | |
It was time for our small state to have representation for women ODs. After attending a meeting in Jacksonville, I knew I wanted to bring that energy and connection back home. I made the time to gather the women in Vermont, and with the help of my amazing friend and colleague Mercedes, we’re just getting started. The best is yet to come! | |
| 6. Name 1 to 3 hurdles you personally faced in your career and how did you overcome them? | |
Navigating the sale of two private practices to private equity was a major decision and transition each time. It required careful planning and trust in the process. Managing the emotional toll of losing both my parents while continuing to lead and serve in optometry challenged me to find strength in community and resilience. Embracing a more nomadic lifestyle meant learning to adapt professionally while continuing to serve in new ways—including licensure in a new state and remaining active on the board. | |
| 7. If you could go back to when you were a student, what advice would you give yourself? | |
| Trust your instincts and know that your voice matters. Also—don’t wait to travel! Life is short, and every experience outside the exam room adds richness to the care you give within it. | |
Become Our Next Diva of the Week!
The Diva of the week feature is designed to share the story of our Elite Divas with the world and to promote their brand in the industry. It is shared on all of our platforms including email and our website. It is a great opportunity to promote your success. If you’d like to be featured, click on the button below to complete the questionnaire. If approved, you will be notified via email of the publication date.
