Tommasina Pasqua Sideris, OD, is a distinguished professional who has combined her expertise in optometry, eyewear design, and health care entrepreneurship with a deep commitment to her community. As the president of Tommasina Enterprises, LLC, Dr. Sideris has built a career that reflects her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to improving her patients’ lives. Her educational foundation began at the University of Waterloo, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1994. Four years later, she received her Doctor of Optometry degree from Ferries State University, setting the stage for her remarkable work in healthcare. She embarked on her journey as a practitioner, and in 1999, she established her first optometry practice. The early years of managing her practice were challenging, but Dr. Sideris’ determination and willingness enabled her to turn her practice into a thriving success.
Owning her building and expanding her team was instrumental in building Dr. Sideris’ reputation in optometry. She excelled at an even greater challenge when a Michigan ophthalmologist approached her to manage a series of underperforming offices. Despite initial hesitation, Dr. Sideris accepted the task and successfully revitalized multiple practices. At one point, she managed seven optometry offices simultaneously, demonstrating her remarkable ability to balance clinical work and business management.
Another defining moment in Dr. Sideris’ path came early on when an eyewear company owner recognized her potential and asked her to sketch designs for eyepieces. These sketches were transformed into prototypes, igniting an enduring passion for eyewear design. Today, as the owner of Tommasina Eyewear, she manages the manufacturing of eyepieces and designs unique eyewear that blends art and functionality. Her products, handmade in Italy and handcrafted in the U.S., are designed to stand apart from mainstream eyewear, reflecting her commitment to quality and originality.
Beyond her achievements, Dr. Sideris is known for her deep personal commitment to her family. She raised her son as a single mother, ensuring she provided for him and supported his development. After marrying a dentist, she boldly decided to sell her Michigan practices and relocate to Connecticut, where she established Eyes On Litchfield in 2016. Starting from scratch in a new community, she built her practice into a successful enterprise that has served the Litchfield community for over eight years.
Her passion for helping others extends beyond her practice. Dr. Sideris has devoted herself to civic causes, including her role as a volunteer with the Foundation for a Drug-Free World for over 12 years and her involvement in local community initiatives. She has served as an ambassador for the Truth, Drug Organization and is a financial sponsor for local teams and various causes. Her work with the Effective Management Association, where she serves as president of the Connecticut chapter, highlights her leadership in promoting ethical management practices. These contributions reflect her belief in giving back to the community and helping others achieve their full potential.
Dr. Sideris’ dedication to her profession and community has earned her several prestigious accolades. In 2022, Vision Monday recognized her as one of the most influential women in optical, a testament to her impact on the industry. She received the Reader’s Choice Award in optometry/ophthalmology from Litchfield Magazine for two consecutive years, reflecting her dedication to excellence in patient care. She emphasizes the importance of consistent action and never giving up on her dreams, which has been central to her growth as a health care professional and entrepreneur. She also credits her success to genuinely caring for her patients, forming meaningful relationships with them, and providing personalized care beyond the clinical.
In addition to her accomplishments, Dr. Sideris is deeply involved in supporting her son’s burgeoning music career. A talented musician and entrepreneur in his own right, her son has launched his own eyewear line, combining his artistic vision with Dr. Sideris’ expertise in design. Together, they have collaborated on projects that merge fashion and music, and their unique partnership has attracted the attention of notable industry figures.
Dr. Sideris envisions expanding her eyewear company, focusing on creating handcrafted, luxury eyewear for discerning clients. She has contributed to the health and well-being of her patients and made a lasting impact through her involvement in civic causes that support the next generation of musicians and entrepreneurs. Her dedication to her family, community, and career remains steadfast.
