Get to know us

Meet Our Staff

Welcome

We work to provide the best support possible.

Ellen Goad, LDO

Practice Administrator

Born in Atlanta, Ellen grew up in Covington, Ga. She moved to Athens to pursue a degree and graduate from UGA.
Ellen passed her Georgia State Boards to become a Licensed Dispensing Optician in 1990. Her career with Thomas Eye Center began in 1998. Since then she has become a consultant, author and advisor to the optometric industry.

She is married to Stephen and mother to two sons, Mason and Jackson. Ellen enjoys time with family, traveling, reading and creating spectacular patient experience.

Tabitha Blalock

Assistant Practice Administrator

Tabitha was born here in Athens, and grew up all over north GA. She graduated from Commerce High School in 2014.

Her career with Thomas Eye Center began in 2019. She has her Office Manager Certification from the University of Houston College of Optometry on behalf of the Professional Eye Care Associates of America.

She resides in Homer, GA with her husband, Trent, and son, Grayson. Tabitha enjoys spending time with her family and doing anything in the great outdoors.

ABOC- WHY BE CERTIFIED?

ABO-NCLE certification demonstrates to the public and the industry that an ophthalmic professional is qualified and competent. It proves that this person takes pride in their profession and in maintaining up-to-date skills and knowledge.

In particular, it identifies to the public that this professional is a dispenser who will handle your eye wear needs with competence – someone who can be trusted to provide the quality care you want and deserve.

It’s also interesting to note that: As of December 31, 2013, there were 29,585 ABO Certified Opticians and 10,557 NCLE Certified Contact Lens Technicians.

Testimonial

I’ve been using Thomas Eye Center since… I guess about 2008. They all know me by name, which I find amazing since I only go in for an annual exam. Dr. Thomas is a really friendly doctor and has a great staff supporting him!

Daniel F. ~ On Facebook