SCOPA awards scholarship to SC native, Savannah Hinzman
October 28, 2026
The South Carolina Optometric Physicians Association (SCOPA) has awarded its 2026 Student Scholarship to Savannah Hinzman, a third-year Doctor of Optometry student at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee.
Hinzman was selected by the SCOPA Board of Directors following a comprehensive review of scholarship applications, with consideration given to academic performance, references, commitment to the profession and other application criteria. She will receive a $5,000 scholarship to support her continued education in optometry. Since 2010, SCOPA has awarded more than $23,000 in scholarships to 14 aspiring Doctors of Optometry. The scholarship program supports South Carolina students pursuing careers in optometry and reflects SCOPA’s commitment to investing in the next generation of eye care professionals.
A South Carolina resident from Greenwood, Hinzman maintains a 3.79 cumulative GPA and is a student member of SCOPA. She has demonstrated a strong commitment to the optometric profession through both her academic work and leadership involvement. She is a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society, serves as president of the South Carolina State Club and is the founder and president of the Dry Eye and Aesthetics Club at the Southern College of Optometry.
“Savannah is an outstanding example of the type of student this scholarship was created to support,” said Dr. Philip Flynn, SCOPA board member and leader of the scholarship selection process. “Her academic accomplishments, leadership and dedication to optometry demonstrate the kind of commitment that will strengthen our profession and ultimately benefit patients across South Carolina. We are proud to support Savannah as she continues her journey toward becoming a Doctor of Optometry.” After graduation, Hinzman plans to return to her hometown of Greenwood, South Carolina, to practice optometry in a private practice, bringing her education and experience back to the community she calls home.
For more information about South Carolina’s Optometric Physicians, please visit sceyedoctors.com or follow the South Carolina Optometric Physicians Association on Facebook.
