Marissa Cruz, OD

Primary Eye Care Physician

Dr. Marissa Cruz was a 2023 Optometry Resident in the accredited Newsom Eye Residency Program. Residents are meticulously selected for this competitive program based on their exemplary education, extensive experience, refined skill set, and unwavering passion for optometry. The program is led by Dr. Eric Fazio, OD, the Medical Director of Optometry and Primary Eye Care Physician at Newsom Eye.

Dr. Cruz  joined Newsom Eye at the Gainesville location. She manages and treats a wide array of ocular diseases and conditions, including treating dry eye disease. She provides comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care for cataract surgeries, YAG capsulotomies, EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) and LASIK.

Clinically, she also excels in designing and fitting scleral lenses for patients with complex conditions such as ectasia, keratoconus, dry eyes, corneal scars, and high astigmatism. Additionally, she is adept at managing patients with dry eye syndrome, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, amblyopia, and various binocular vision disorders.

Dr. Cruz began her optometry journey at Nova Southeastern University, earning a Doctorate of Optometry and a Bachelor of Science in Vision Science. Her dedication extended beyond academics as she participated in community service projects, providing vision screenings and education for underserved populations. Her compassionate, patient-centered care improves patients’ vision and quality of life.

Born and raised in Melbourne, Florida, Dr. Cruz enjoys engaging in outdoor activities, traveling, and spending quality time with her family. She is committed to delivering exceptional optometric care, driven by her passion for helping others.

Education

• Residency in Ocular Disease, Cornea and Contact Lenses, and Refractive and Ocular Surgeries, Newsom Eye, Tampa, FL (July 2024)

• Doctorate of Optometry, Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry (NSUCO), Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 2023)

• Bachelor of Science in Vision Science, Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry (NSUCO), Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 2021)

• Bachelor of Science in Biology, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 2019)

Noteworthy Accomplishments

• 2023 – VSP Global Faculty Choice Award of Excellence
• 2023 – Contact Lens Practice Management Award
• 2020 – Walmart Leadership Scholarship Award NOA

Professional Associations

• American Academy of Optometry
• Contact Lens and Cornea Society
• Beta Sigma Kappa
• National Optometric Student Association
• Optometric Student Association for Ocular Disease