The Seeing Eye’s founders and two staff members were recognized recently by industry colleagues who wished to award these hard-working members for their dedication to enhancing independence for people who are blind.
During the National Service Animals Memorial (NSAM) 2025 Purple Poppy Awards Gala, The Seeing Eye’s founders, Morris Frank and Dorothy Harrison Eustis, were awarded the National Service Animals Memorial Hall of Fame Award for their creation of the first guide dog school in the United States. Seeing Eye President & CEO Karen Leies and Seeing Eye graduate Vinay Billimoria accepted the awards on behalf of The Seeing Eye’s late founders.
Karen Leies shared, “We’re grateful that NSAM will carry forward Morris Frank’s pioneering access work. The public awareness and educational opportunities NSAM offers will be significant. It is essential that the public, business owners, and law enforcement understand and support the rights of people partnered with guide dogs and other service animals, ensuring fair and equal access for all.”
Melissa Allman, The Seeing Eye’s Senior Specialist of Advocacy & Government Relations, was recognized in June with the Moffitt-Gleitz Award. Guide Dog Users, Inc., recognized Melissa for her efforts to advocate for the rights of guide dog handlers. Among her accomplishments is The Seeing Eye Advocacy App, a free app available for Apple/iOS and Google/Android, advising people about the latest laws regarding service animals. She also provides information to graduates and others through The Seeing Eye’s website at www.SeeingEye.org/access.
Lukas Franck, a retired Seeing Eye instructor who continues his association as a volunteer, was recognized in August by The Seeing Eye with the Buddy Award for his lifetime of contributions to the organization and the entire guide dog movement. The Buddy Award, named for the first Seeing Eye dog, is presented to those few individuals who demonstrate “extraordinary commitment to The Seeing Eye program, who show genuine concern for the welfare of animals, particularly dogs, and who foster greater public understanding of the use of Seeing Eye dogs to enhance the independence and dignity of blind people.”
In November, Lukas will be presented with the 2025 AFB Migel Medal by the American Foundation for the Blind. The AFB Migel Medal was established in 1937 by M.C. Migel, AFB’s first chairman, “to honor professionals and volunteers whose dedication and achievements improve the lives of people who are blind or have low vision.” Lukas was cited for his many contributions to guide dog mobility and pedestrian safety. Lukas also received the Access Award at the American Council of the Blind’s annual convention in July.
Congratulations, Dorothy, Morris, Melissa, and Lukas, and thank you for all you have and continue to do to support The Seeing Eye’s mission!
