A native of Wilmot Township, Dr. Furniss’ post secondary education includes her Bachelor of Science degree (1989) and Masters’ of Science degree (1999) from the University of Waterloo and a Doctor of Optometry degree (1993) from Indiana University.
Dr. Furniss began private practice in 1993 in North Bay, Ontario. After practicing for two years, she returned home and began clinical teaching at the School of Optometry, at the University of Waterloo, while concurrently working on her Masters’ degree. During these years, her research was focused on eye health among seniors, specifically related to the effect of cataracts on vision and quality of life. She supervised students within several clinics at the School of Optometry, but primarily focused her teaching in the contact lens and laser clinics. During her first year of teaching she was awarded the “Distinguished Clinical Instructor Award”.
Although Dr. Furniss has primarily been in private practice, for many years she maintained her academic involvement with the University of Waterloo's School of Optometry. She was a part-time Clinical Instructor for over 10 years, was a Fourth Year Clinical Extern Supervisor and a supervisor with the International Optometric Bridging program. The Bridging program is one which facilitates the clinical experience for Optometrists who were educated outside of Canada and are applying for a Canadian licence. She also was an assessor with the Quality Assurance Committee for the College of Optometrists of Ontario.
Past involvement includes being president of the local Waterloo-Wellington Optometric Society and a member of the Advisory Board for The Laser Center (TLC).
Out of the office, she enjoys yoga, fitness, baking for her family and playing with her Newfoundlander dog.
