At Optics, our experienced medical team adheres to the highest professional standards and through utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, we provide our patients with the most complete eye care service. We maximize patient education so you become actively involved in your vision care, preventative eye health, and overall health decisions.
Dr. Jill Rago
Optometrist
Dr. Jill Rago grew up in Canada and received her Bachelor of Business degree in Marketing and Finance at the University of Alberta. She graduated from Pacific University College of Optometry in 1997 where she was awarded membership in the Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society, a recognition reserved only for optometry’s top graduates. Dr. Rago also had the prestigious honor of receiving the President’s Award given to the overall top graduate exemplifying excellence in academics and clinical skills. Since her internship at Kaiser Permanente in Maui, HI, Dr. Rago has been practicing in Arizona, serving the residents of the valley for the past 20 years. Areas of special interest to Dr. Rago include specialty contact lenses, laser vision correction, and the diagnosis and treatment of medical eye conditions such as cataracts, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, or glaucoma.
Dr. Rago is highly skilled, and professionally certified by both the American Optometric Association and the Arizona Optometric Association. Jill’s personable manner and dedication to patient satisfaction exemplify the Optics approach to eye care. “What I love most about my job is taking the time to get to know my patients and seeing the difference we can make in their lives. Vision impacts all facets of our daily lives.”
Outside of the office, raising two very active daughters keeps Jill and her husband, Derek, very busy. In her spare time, she enjoys leading an active lifestyle, doing triathlons, marathons, and playing various sports.
Brad E. Whipple
Licensed Optician
Brad E. Whipple has been a professional Optician for 30 years where during this time he has earned his license from the American board of Opticians, National Contact Lens Examiners, is a licensed Dispensing Optician in the State of Arizona, and has his Masters of Business degree.
Brad has a remarkable talent for selecting the perfect eyewear and sun wear according to a patient’s specific prescription needs, face shape, coloring, and personal style. To ensure he continually stays abreast of the latest trends in eyewear, Brad frequents many International Vision Expos including Las Vegas, NV, New York, NY and Milan, Italy.
Brad develops a special rapport with his customers that few can. “I love to see the transformation that people can make by a simple eyewear change, whether it is choosing a look that takes years off, or adding eyewear to your wardrobe for an intellectual look.”
Brad is a fourth generation Native Arizonan and loves to enjoy all the facets that the state has to offer.
Dr. Sophie Robinson
Optometrist
Dr. Sophie Robinson grew up in Charlotte, NC. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Psychology at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, so she is naturally a Tar Heel fan. She attended optometry school at NOVA Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL and graduated with Beta Sigma Kappa honors. She received the VSP Practice Excellence Award as well as being the only one in her class awarded the Module Directors Award in clinical excellence in primary care. She completed externships in various areas of optometry including contact lenses, pediatrics with an emphasis on strabismus and amblyopia, and low vision services. Her final externship before making the move to Scottsdale was at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, FL. This experience allowed her to become comfortable diagnosing and treating various ocular manifestations and diseases including glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetes, and dry eye. Dr. Robinson has also enjoyed volunteering her time participating in vision screenings for Special Olympic athletes.
The most important aspect of her job is developing personal relationships with her patients and tailoring eye care to their individual needs. “I value the primary care role of optometry and one-on-one interactions with patients. Building professional trust is very important to me, and it starts with patient education.”
She looks forward to creating professional relationships with the people of the Scottsdale area and helping them meet their individualized ocular and visual needs. In her spare time, she enjoys visiting with family and friends, exercising, and all the great food Scottsdale has to offer!
Sharon Mathis
Licensed Optician
With over 23 years of experience as a second-generation certified optician, Sharon is a cornerstone of our team. A proud Arizona native, her deep-rooted connection to the state, starting in Winslow, has shaped her warm and welcoming personality.
Sharon’s exceptional interpersonal skills allow her to build genuine relationships with our patients. She takes the time to understand not only their visual needs but also their personal style, ensuring they find the perfect eyewear to complement their lifestyle.
As a certified optician with both the American Board of Opticianry and The National Contact Lens Examiners (including having her Arizona state license), Sharon is a true expert and stays up-to-date on the latest eyewear designs and technologies. Her knowledge combined with her patient-focused approach makes her an invaluable asset to our practice.
When she’s not helping our patients see and look their best, Sharon enjoys spending quality time with her high school sweetheart, Nick, and their daughter, Jenna Rae, a student at ASU-Barrett. Their furry family member, Scarlett Jane, keeps them on their toes! In her spare time, Sharon finds relaxation and enjoyment through attending concerts and scrapbooking.
Melissa Gilbert
Optometric Technician
With over 15 years of dedicated service, Melissa is a native Arizonian who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our practice. Her passion for patient care is evident in the positive and comfortable environment she creates for every patient. A true people person, Melissa enjoys connecting with patients and helping them see the world clearly. Her high energy and enthusiasm are contagious, making your visit a pleasant experience.
When she’s not caring for our patients, Melissa can be found enjoying the outdoors, exploring underwater worlds through scuba diving, finding inner peace through yoga, or indulging her culinary passion by creating healthy and delicious meals.
A devoted mother and grandmother, Melissa cherishes spending quality time with her two children and two grandsons.
Nancy Torres
Optician
With a passion for both vision and style, Nancy has been crafting personalized eyewear solutions for over 18 years. Her unique ability to connect with patients ensures that every client leaves feeling confident and satisfied with their vision and fashion choices.
A proud Arizonan since 2011, Nancy made the move from sunny South Texas and has called the Grand Canyon State home for the past 13 years. When she’s not helping patients see and look their best, she enjoys spending quality time with her two daughters, one son and one cherished granddaughter.
Nancy is also a devoted dog mom to Cesar, a charming mix of Rottweiler and Husky (Rottsky). Together, they love exploring the outdoors on hikes, leisurely drives, or bike rides on her trusty cruiser.
