Meet the Staff

- Owner/Optometrist

Angela Gardner, O.D., is a therapeutically licensed Optometrist who has been in the area since 1998.  Dr. Gardner completed undergraduate work at Binghamton University, obtaining a Biology degree while a member of the Women's Varsity Soccer Team.

Dr. Gardner is a current member of the American Optometric Society, The New York State Optometric Society, and Vision Source.  She is also an active member of the Schuylerville Lions Club.

After graduation, Dr. Gardner attended SUNY State College of Optometry where she graduated with honors.  Dr. Gardner then completed a residency in hospital-based optometry at Brockton/West Roxbury VA Medical Center in Massachusetts.  During her time at the VAMC, Dr. Gardner gained valuable experience in caring for patients with multiple medical conditions. Dr. Gardner practices primary eye care taking care of patients from pediatrics through geriatrics managing their eye care needs with the latest technology.

Dr. Gardner completed an extensive in-person training for Neurovisual Medical Evaluations in 2022. With this training, Dr. Gardner is able to diagnose and treat Binocular Vision Dysfunction. 

- Owner/Licensed Optician

 Tara LaFave, a native of Saratoga Springs, NY, is a 1988 graduate of SUNY Cortland, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She continued her education in the optical field and became a New York State Licensed Optician in 1991. In 2007, Tara expanded her credentials by earning her certification in contact lens fitting. She soon transitioned into the business side of the optical industry, bringing her expertise to a variety of practice settings—including large retail optical stores, private ophthalmology offices, and smaller optometric practices.

With over 30 years of experience, Tara brings a wealth of knowledge and a well-rounded perspective to our team. She is a proud member of the American Board of Opticianry and the New York State Society of Opticians. Locally, she has been an active member of the Schuylerville Lions Club since 2005, supporting community service initiatives close to her heart. Outside of the office, Tara enjoys camping with her husband and close friends, gardening, and spending quality time with her family—especially her grandchildren.

- Optometrist

Dr. Kinsey Beshara is a dedicated optometrist who grew up in Hudson Falls. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from St. Bonaventure University in 2018, and went on to receive her Doctor of Optometry degree from MCPHS University in 2022. When not in the office, Dr. Beshara enjoys golfing, skiing, and spending time with her husband and two children.

- Licensed Optician / Contact Lens Dispensing Trainee

Bonny Sargent is a 2008 graduate of Schuylerville Central School and earned her degree from SUNY Adirondack in 2010. She has been certified by the American Board of Opticianry since 2012 and became a New York State Licensed Optician in 2014. Bonny began her career in optical in 2011 and joined the Old Saratoga Eyecare team in 2017.She is an active member of the New York State Society of Opticians and currently serves as the Facilitator for the Albany and Hudson Valley region of the Vision Source Representative Program.

In this leadership role, she helps connect key staff members across Vision Source practices to promote collaboration, leadership development, knowledge sharing, and innovative business strategies that support both staff and doctors. Bonny is currently expanding her expertise by pursuing certification in contact lens dispensing. She is in the training phase of her apprenticeship and may assist with contact lens fittings during your visit. She’s looking forward to growing her career in this area and is excited about all that contact lenses can offer to patients—from increased comfort and convenience to greater visual freedom. Passionate about frame styles and the latest advancements in lens technology, Bonny is committed to helping patients not only see clearly but also look and feel their best. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter.

- Apprentice Optician

Shannon Bass, CMAA, is excited to be a part of the Old Saratoga Eyecare team since July 2021. You may have previously seen her working her magic with scheduling, billing, and customer care but we are excited to announce that she is furthering her career as an Apprentice Optician. Shannon has a weakness for cat eyeglasses, thunderstorms, and a good cup of coffee.

- Technician/Scribe

Bethany has been part of the Old Saratoga Eyecare team since November 2021 and plays a key role in the practice’s Neurovisual Medicine program. As a technician, she performs advanced diagnostic testing and assists in the evaluation and treatment of patients experiencing complex visual challenges such as dizziness, headaches, and focus difficulties. Her favorite part of the job is witnessing the transformation that happens when patients finally find relief after years of searching for answers. Bethany believes eyecare is about more than glasses — it’s about restoring comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

- Technician

Emma joined Old Saratoga Eyecare as a Technician in January 2023 and has since developed a strong foundation in patient care, diagnostic testing, and day-to-day clinical operations. She takes pride in helping patients feel comfortable and well-informed during their visits and enjoys being part of a supportive, knowledgeable team. With over a year of hands-on experience, she continues to build her skills in optometric technology while contributing to a smooth, positive experience for every patient who walks through the doors.

- Administrative Assistant

We’re excited to welcome Jackie White to our team at Old Saratoga Eyecare!  Jackie brings a warm smile, strong organizational skills, and a genuine passion for helping others.  With a background in administrative support and patient assistance, she is dedicated to making every visit smooth and welcoming – from your first phone call to your checkout.

- Receptionist

Meet Gwen, the newest member of the team at Old Saratoga Eyecare, where she recently joined as a Receptionist. She's excited to be part of a practice that truly cares about its patients. Gwen enjoys greeting everyone with a smile, helping appointments run smoothly, and ensuring each person feels welcome and comfortable.