Honoring a Legacy in Eye Care: CEENTA’s 2026 Angie Madigan Scholarship Recipient

At CEENTA, supporting the next generation of eye care professionals is more than an initiative—it’s a responsibility rooted in our people and our history. In partnership with Central Piedmont Community College, CEENTA is proud to award the Angie Madigan Ophthalmic Medical Assisting Scholarship, established in memory of Angie Madigan, a dedicated ophthalmic assistant at CEENTA whose compassion, skill, and commitment to patients left a lasting impact on those around her.

Each year, the scholarship supports students in Central Piedmont’s Ophthalmic Medical Personnel program who reflect the same passion for patient care and professional growth that defined Angie’s career.

Meet the 2026 Recipient: Isabella Zapata

This year’s scholarship recipient, Isabella Zapata, found her calling in eye care through a personal connection. Inspired by her grandmother’s work helping patients see better, Isabella was drawn to a field that blends science, technical skills, and meaningful human impact. With a strong aptitude for science and math, she chose the Ophthalmic Medical Personnel program at Central Piedmont as a direct path to healthcare.

The scholarship has allowed Isabella to focus fully on her coursework and clinical training—reducing financial pressure while reinforcing her confidence that she belongs in this field and can truly make a difference for patients. According to Isabella:

“This scholarship allows me to truly pursue ophthalmology and grow into a technician my future clinic can rely on. I’m looking forward to helping patients maintain their vision and independence."

A Scholarship That Removes Barriers—and Builds Belief

For students, support like this goes beyond financial assistance. As Kathleen Rodgers Thompson, COT, Department Chair and Instructor of Ophthalmic Medical Personnel at Central Piedmont, explains:

“Scholarships like the Angie Madigan award do more than help with tuition—they send a powerful message to students that they belong in this profession. That encouragement helps them stay focused, complete their training, and step confidently into patient care.”

A Longstanding Partnership, With Eyes on the Future

CEENTA’s support of ophthalmic education extends beyond this scholarship. For years, CEENTA physicians and care teams—including retired ophthalmologists who continue to give back—have partnered with Central Piedmont to support student learning and workforce development.

Most recently, that collaboration expanded through the launch of the CEENTA–Central Piedmont Ophthalmic Apprenticeship Program, an earn‑while‑you‑learn pathway that combines classroom instruction with paid, hands‑on clinical experience in CEENTA clinics.

Together, these programs create multiple pathways into eye care—reducing barriers, strengthening skills, and preparing students to enter the workforce ready to support exceptional patient care.

We are incredibly proud of Isabella and honored to carry Angie Madigan’s legacy forward by investing in students who share her dedication and heart for patients.

Interested in Launching a Career in Eye Care at an Award‑Winning Workplace?

Explore CEENTA’s open ophthalmic assistant roles and apprenticeship opportunities by visiting our Careers Page.