OUR PROVIDERS
Audiology Providers
Anneliese M. Hartman, AuD
Doctor of Audiology
Having over 23 years of hospital and clinical practice experience has taught Dr. Hartman patience and the need to focus on each individual patient’s needs. In her expanded role as Director of the Hearing Clinic, Dr. Hartman will provide patients with compassionate and person-centered care as well as leadership and direction of the Clinic’s patient flow and policies. “Audiology encompasses more than just ears, says Anneliese, “To me, Audiology is the perfect combination of people and science!” Identifying challenges and providing individual communicative solutions for every patient is what she enjoys most about her chosen profession. When away from work, Dr. Hartman enjoys yoga, Brazilian jiu jutsu, pole, hiking and reading.
Vision Providers
Dr. Connie Copeland, OD, PhD
Optometrist
I have worked as an optometrist for more than 25 years in various roles: in an ophthalmology department, in a private practice and as a Clinical Director at a laser vision correction company. When in private practice I set up a Low Vision service, which I found very rewarding. To increase my knowledge, I spent a week at the Lighthouse for the Blind in New York City (now Lighthouse Guild) taking their Low Vision continuing education course. Most of the time, however, I have worked in primary eye care and I enjoy working with all types of people to resolve their visual needs.
Becca Kelley, MSED, COMS, CVRT.
Vision Rehabilitation Specialist
I have a rich background in special education, specializing in visual disabilities. My experience includes serving as a graduate research assistant at Northern Illinois University and presenting at the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) for the Wisconsin and Illinois chapters. I completed an internship at The Lighthouse for Vital Living in Duluth, MN, and have worked as a Vision Rehabilitation Therapist and Orientation and Mobility Specialist at both the Vision Loss Resource Center in Little Canada, MN, and The Chicago Lighthouse.
Dr. Nida Malik
Optometrist
Following graduation from the Illinois College of Optometry, Dr. Malik had the privilege of practicing across a wide range of clinical settings. From rural private practice, corporate retail to non-profit medical clinics, all of which have taught her that the priority should always be patient-centered care.
Dr. Malik’s diverse experience has allowed her to be comfortable with both routine and complex eye conditions. She has extensive experience with cataracts, diabetic eye disease and glaucoma.
"My passion lies with promoting overall wellness and I firmly believe preventative eye exams are crucial for maintaining good vision and for early detection of potential eye diseases. I enjoy building lasting relationships with patients and helping them understand this vital connection between the eyes and overall health.”
Monica Vandeven, MSEd, COMS
Vision Rehabilitation Specialist
Monica's interest in Vision Rehabilitation was inspired by her appreciation for helping others and a belief that working toward independence provides self-determination. Through assessment, observation, and conversation, her aim is to customize every client's training and work toward their independence. "It's important to treat every client as an individual," says Monica. "I make sure to understand every client's learning style personal definition of independence, and overall goals so I can better serve them." Monica has a BA in Sociology from DePaul University and a Master of Special Education in Orientation and Mobility and Vision Rehabilitation Therapy from Northern Illinois University. When no working, she enjoys birding with her husband, hand building ceramics, bicycling, and traveling.
Emily Shuman
Vision Rehabilitation Specialist
Emily possesses a well-rounded background in special education, geared towards helping those with low vision blindness. Her experience includes nine years of teaching students with low vision, working with them on becoming more independent in the areas of work completion, technology, and daily living skills.
"My goal in teaching is always to meet people where they are at and build on their knowledge and skill sets. I continually encourage my clients to try new activities and to focus on taking back the reins of their life and get their independence back.”