Doctors & Staff
Meet the experienced and friendly doctors and staff who make Family Eyecare by Dr. Michelle the leading provider of vision care products and services in Omaha.
Dr. Michelle Meyer Strawhecker – Optometrist and Practice Owner
Dr. Michelle Meyer Strawhecker is a second-generation eye doctor born and raised in Omaha, NE. She purchased Family Eyecare by Dr. Michelle from her father, Dr. Dean Meyer in 2019 after his long dedicated 40-year career.
She received her Bachelor of Science from the University of NE Lincoln followed by her Doctor of Optometry from Arizona College of Optometry. Dr Meyer Strawhecker is a member of the Nebraska Optometric Association and Vision Source. Dr. Meyer Strawhecker takes pride in creating a unique and personalized experience when you come to the office!
When she is not at the office, she is spending precious time with her family, husband, Mike, and boisterous children Mila, Mikey and Vince (ages 4, 3 and 1).
Dr. Carole Linn – Associate Doctor
Dr. Carole Linn graduated from Indiana University School of Optometry in 1995 and prior to that, received her undergraduate degree at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. She is a member of a Nebraska Optometric Association, the American Optometric Association and participates in the Women’s Philanthropic educational organization.
Dr. Linn specializes in hard contact and scleral contact lenses. She was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska and takes pride in serving the community she grew up in. Dr. Linn’s family includes her husband, Dave, their daughter, Mckenna, and bonus sons, Matt and Mike. And let’s not forget beautiful granddaughters that light up every room! Dr. Linn enjoys quality time with her two dogs, Shamrock and Ladybug, playing volleyball, bowling, cooking and crafts.
Dr. Linn is excited to meet you and your family and wants to ensure every patient is on the path to achieving happy and healthy eyes.
Kristina Lozano-Gomez – Practice Operations Manager
In 2015, Kristina embarked on her journey in the world of optics, leveraging her extensive background in Customer Service spanning over 25 years, coupled with more than 15 years of leadership and management experience. She possesses a comprehensive understanding of optical intricacies, adept at everything from adjustments and frame styling to meticulously selecting lenses tailored to individual lifestyles. Kristina seamlessly collaborates with doctors, providing invaluable assistance in patient care and pretesting, while also extending a welcome at the front desk and ensuring smooth appointment check-ins. Her dedication to people, coupled with a passion for training and development, drives her leadership style, infusing our team with unwavering energy and positivity, and nurturing an environment centered around patient satisfaction.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Kristina shares her life with her husband, Efraen, and their five children: Jaya, Vanessa, Erick, Tre’, and Christian, whose vibrant array of extracurricular activities keep the family bustling with excitement. Actively involved in her church community, Kristina channels her passion for service into meaningful contributions to the youth and women’s ministries, steadfast in her commitment to making a positive impact within her local community
Hayley O’Dell – Front Desk Admin
Hayley is one of the first friendly faces that will greet you as you enter Family Eyecare by Dr. Michelle. She strives to make every patient interaction exceptional. Hayley has three years of optical experience and 12 years of customer service background; she also has experience with both insurance billing and scheduling. Her 10 years plus in caregiving compliments her role.
Outside of the practice, Hayley spends a lot of time outdoors -wildlife, hiking, and camping with her family, friends, and dog, Tasia. Hayley also enjoys painting, drawing, and cooking.
Samantha Johnson – Optician
Samantha has 11 years of experience in retail and an additional 3 years specializing in optical retail, has established herself as a dedicated and passionate professional. Born and raised in Omaha. She later ventured into a small town in Iowa alongside her boyfriend, where they now nurture a unique household with 55 chickens, 3 ducks, 2 dogs, and 5 cats.
In her professional journey, Samantha has honed her skills as a quick learner with a strong emphasis on customer service. Her compassion for her patients sets her apart, and she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure their well-being. Samantha’s commitment to providing top-notch service is a testament to her dedication to the optical industry.
Samantha finds joy in her creative pursuits during her free time. A skilled crocheter, she dedicates her moments of relaxation to crafting heartfelt gifts for friends and loved ones. This not only showcases her artistic side but also underlines her commitment to bringing warmth and joy to those around her.
Chyann Dean CPO – Lead OD Tech/Optician
Chyann Dean brings a wealth of experience to her profession, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing and Management from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Starting her career at just 14, she began her journey in the hospitality industry while also actively engaging in high school activities such as honors societies, softball, and clubs.
With 7 years of dedicated service in the optical field, Chyann has progressed from being an optician to assuming roles as a tech and eventually an optical manager. Her commitment to excellence led her to achieve certification as a Paraoptometric Tech in May 2023.
Driven by a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact, Chyann continually seeks to enhance her skills to provide exceptional care and support to her patients. She values building lasting connections and radiates positivity in every interaction.
Outside of work, Chyann enjoys traveling with her husband Jack, exploring both local and international destinations, especially relishing family visits in the UK. They also cherish spending quality time with their nieces and nephews.
During her downtime, Chyann indulges in reading and delving into true crime documentaries, accompanied by her beloved pets: Kitten the cat, and Ruby and Remy the dogs. These moments underscore her diverse interests and unwavering enthusiasm for life.
Jaya Lozano-Faison – OD Tech
Jaya began her professional journey in customer service and sales at a local photography studio before transitioning into the optical industry as an OD technician. Her passion for the optical field was inspired by her mother, who has worked in the industry for many years and passed on her passion to Jaya.
Driven by a genuine desire to make a difference, Jaya is committed to continually enhancing her skills to provide exceptional care and support to her patients. She values building lasting relationships and brings positive energy to every interaction.
Recently, Jaya earned a degree in Social Science from Iowa Western Community College, where she also captained the college’s nationally-ranked dance team. Now, she has taken on the role of assistant coach for the same team. Alongside her work at the college, she coaches a competitive dance team and teaches various dance styles at a studio in Iowa. In her free time, Jaya enjoys traveling, reading, and dancing wherever she goes.
Ashlee Trentmann – Virtual Billing Specialist
Ashlee was born and raised in Western Nebraska where she spent many years traveling and training horses. She began her career in Optometry six years ago as an eyewear specialist and quickly gained knowledge of other positions within the profession. Ashlee joins our team with awareness of all roles within the office, including technician, optician, billing and management.
In May of 2022, she and her husband moved to Alabama where she remotely manages insurance billing and credentialing. Her passion and experience for eye care is visible in her detail-oriented manner!
Carolina Lara – Virtual Medical Scribe
Carolina Lara is an accomplished medical scribe with a solid foundation in customer service, honed over seven years of experience. At 26, she has swiftly advanced in the medical field, recognized for her precision in documentation and ability to excel in high-pressure healthcare environments. Her exceptional communication skills and unwavering commitment to patient care distinguish her as a reliable and compassionate professional.
With a high school diploma and an assistant certification, Carolina is passionate about continuous learning and eager to deepen her understanding of medical practices and terminology. Her love for diverse cultures and languages helps her create meaningful connections with patients, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Recently engaged to the love of her life, Eduardo, and a devoted pet parent to five cats-four of whom are rescues-Carolina is excited to continue applying her passion and expertise to enhance patient care and documentation in her work.