Born and raised in Winnipeg, Dr. Renee Phipps holds a degree in Microbiology and Zoology from the University of Manitoba and a Doctorate degree from Illinois College of Optometry. While studying in Chicago, Dr. Phipps received several excellence and achievement awards, including American Optometric Association Contact Lens and Cornea Section Student Research Award, the C. Payton Powell Scholarship, and National Vision Award, all while maintaining an active role in the student government at the College. Dr. Phipps was a contributing writer for the Contact Lens and Cornea Section of the American Optometric Association newsletter; her articles served as instructional tools for her colleagues and peers in the areas of contact lens care and anterior segment ocular disease.
Dr. Phipps has participated in a number of volunteer eye care services events, most notably a mission trip to San Carlos, Mexico organized by the Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity Organization and the World Health Organization to provide free eye care to the San Carlos area residents. Dr. Phipps' current professional affiliations include the Gold Key Honors Society, the Alberta College of Optometrists, Manitoba Association of Optometrists, Canadian Association of Optometry, the Florida Optometric Association, and the American Optometric Association.
Dr. Phipps is a busy mother of three, who enjoys working with other community members on boards, community associations and committees. In 2020, Dr. Phipps added to book author to her list of achievements. Her first children's book was released in 2020.
