About Us
For appointments, call one of our offices.
Leading Eye Care Provider in Dutchess County Since 1892
With a legacy that began in 1892, Dutchess Optometry has been a trusted eye care provider in Dutchess County for more than a century. Our long-standing roots reflect generations of commitment to exceptional service, advanced vision care, and strong ties to the Hudson Valley community. From the beginning, we’ve blended clinical expertise with a personal touch, making our patients feel seen, heard, and cared for. Today, we remain dedicated to delivering modern, individualized care while honoring the values that built our foundation.
Our team of experienced optometrists and eye care professionals proudly serves patients in both Poughkeepsie and Red Hook with a full range of services, from routine eye exams for all ages to eye disease management and co-management of surgeries like LASIK. Whether you need prescription glasses, contact lenses, or more specialized care, we will support your vision at every stage of life. We’re proud to be part of a practice where tradition meets innovation, and where your eye health is always our top priority.
Our history
Dutchess Optometry is one of the oldest optometric practices in the country, with a rich history that began in Poughkeepsie in 1892. Our practice was founded by Dr. C.H. Perkins, who set the tone for decades of exceptional care. In the years that followed, he was joined by optometrist Atherton Marshall. Together, they built a reputation for excellence under the name “Perkins and Marshall,” serving families across the Hudson Valley.
The legacy continued as Dr. Marshall’s brother Henry joined in the 1930s, followed by Dr. Saul Polenberg in 1971. To better serve patients in central and northern Dutchess County, Dr. James G. Cayea opened our Red Hook office in 1977. Dr. Tracy Sheedy joined Dutchess Optometry in 2001, bringing her expertise in pediatric eye care.
After the retirements of Dr. Polenberg in 2014 and Dr. Cayea in 2017, the practice was left in the skilled hands of Dr. Sheedy and Dr. Lappan, continuing its long tradition of excellence. Today, with the addition of Dr. Zachary Graham, our team remains focused on the future while staying rooted in the values that shaped our past. Through every advancement, we’ve stayed committed to delivering expert, compassionate eye care to families in Dutchess County.
Dr. Tracy Sheedy
Optometrist, Practice Owner
Dr. Sheedy received her bachelor’s degree from Binghamton University and her Doctor of Optometry from the State University of New York College of Optometry. She completed a residency in rehabilitative optometry at Northport VA Medical Center. Dr. Sheedy specializes in pediatric optometry, low vision care, and vision development. She has been in practice since 1996 and has been the owner of Dutchess Optometry since 2009. She is a member of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development.
Dr. Elisabeth Lappan
Optometrist, Practice Owner
Dr. Lappan grew up in the Poughkeepsie area and received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Binghamton University. She then received her Doctor of Optometry from the State University of New York College of Optometry. She completed rotations in primary care, vision therapy, and pediatric optometry at the College of Optometry as well as a rotation in ocular disease at the Hudson Valley, VA Hospital. Dr. Lappan started practicing with Dutchess Optometry in July 2014 and became an owner in 2023. When she’s not in the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two young boys.
Dr. Zachary Graham
Optometrist
Dr. Graham grew up on Long Island and received his undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences at Marist College. He received his Doctor of Optometry degree from the State University of New York College of Optometry and has completed a residency in primary care/ocular disease at the Veteran’s Association Hudson Valley Healthcare System. He has a particular interest in managing ocular disease and primary eye care. Dr. Graham is new to Dutchess Optometry and is excited to provide quality and collaborative care to the Hudson Valley community.
Kim, Office Manager
About Kim
Kim’s diverse experience, from IBM to medical billing, enriches our practice. As the office manager, she ensures the highest standards of patient care and office efficiency.
LuAnn Hilts, Licensed Optician
About LuAnn
With a wealth of experience since 1979, LuAnn is a cornerstone of our optician team. She brings a blend of expertise and warmth to our patients and staff alike.
Amy Horetz, Licensed Optician
About Amy
After a television career, Amy’s shift to optometry brought a fresh perspective. She combines her passion for technology with eyewear fashion to enhance patient vision and style.
Jennifer Bakke, Licensed Optician
More about Jennifer
Jennifer’s role in providing specialized eye care and eyewear recommendations is invaluable. Her expertise ensures patients leave with the perfect vision solutions.
Adriene Rodriguez, Licensed Optician
More about Adriene
Adriene, eager to learn and excel, transitioned from optometric technician to apprentice optician. Her goal to become a certified optician by 2025 shows her dedication to optical excellence.
Nicole, Apprentice Optician
More about Nicole
Nicole’s passion for optometry is evident in her attentive care to patients. She assists in various aspects of patient care, making every visit smooth and pleasant.
Emily Pelletier, Certified Paraoptometric
About Emily
A dedicated and skilled paraoptometric, Emily plays a crucial role in our team, ensuring patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care during their visits.
Taylor, Optometric Assistant
About Taylor
Taylor’s commitment to patient care shines through in every interaction. Her role is pivotal in assisting with eye exams and ensuring patient comfort.
Gina, Optometric Assistant
About Gina
Gina’s smile and friendly attitude greet patients as soon as they enter the office. She makes check-in and check-out a breeze and is there to answer all your insurance questions. Gina has been with the practice since 2014 and enjoys the relationships built with long standing patients and making new patients feel like they have been coming for years. The practice is lucky to have such a dedicated staff member.
Christine, Optometric Assistant
About Christine
Christine ensures that each patient’s experience at our office is seamless from start to finish with her attention to detail and caring approach. Because of her unique sense of style, many patients look to her for opinions on choosing frames.
Gianna, Optometric Assistant
About Gianna
Gianna joined our Dutchess Optometry family with a wealth of optometric skills. She will primarily be one of the friendly faces checking patients in, but her diversity is invaluable and she is frequently called upon to do many other tasks. What a great addition to our team.