Dr. Mia Taylor joined University Eye Specialists in 2023 as an exceptional optometrist with a heart for comprehensive eye care and patient well-being. Hailing from Athens, Tennessee, she grew up surrounded by the beauty of Appalachia’s mountains and rivers, fostering a deep love for nature.
Dr. Taylor’s journey started with a degree in Nutrition, earned with Summa Cum Laude honors from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2018. Her interest in nutrition stems from her desire to understand the bigger picture of patient care beyond just the eyes. During her college years, she was also an active member of the Pride of the Southland Marching Band, showcasing her musical talents and team spirit.
Her dedication to eye health led her to become an optometrist, and she excelled in her studies, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree from the Southern College of Optometry in 2022. During her time there, she served as the President of the student society of the Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians, demonstrating her leadership qualities and commitment to her peers.
Through internships at SouthEast Eye Specialists and with Drs. Kapperman, White, and McGarvey, she honed her skills in medical optometry and ocular disease management. Dr. Taylor’s passion for her field only grew stronger during her residency in Ocular Disease at Huffman and Huffman in London, Kentucky, where she gained valuable experience in managing various eye conditions.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Taylor finds joy in simple pleasures. She cherishes spending time with her husband, Jake, and their adorable pets, Obi and Poplar. In her downtime, you’ll find her enjoying music, exploring new foods, dabbling in painting and tie-dying, and indulging in movies.
Driven by a desire to empower her patients, Dr. Taylor values patient education and discussion. Seeing the positive impact it makes when patients understand their eye health, she strives to improve their lives beyond just vision.
Her dedication to her craft has been recognized through various awards, including the AAO Foundation Anterior Segment Resident Travel Fellowship, the Southwest Contact Lens Society Endowed Scholarship, the Dr. Stanley M. Dickerson Leadership Award, and membership in the Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society.
As an active fellow of the American Optometric Association, American Academy of Optometry, and the Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians, Dr. Mia Taylor remains at the forefront of her field, staying updated on advancements and contributing to her professional community.
With her warm personality, genuine compassion, and commitment to excellence, Dr. Taylor continues to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients, making her a standout optometrist loved by many.
