Dr. Lefland studied biology at Queens College, City University of New York. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in 1973 and a Master’s in Education in 1976. In 1981, he received his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry and received the Alumni Award for outstanding scholarship.
He completed training in contact lenses, pediatric optometry, and low vision. He has been an Industrial Vision Consultant and has worked on research for contact lenses.
In 1982, Dr. Lefland opened his practice in Hamden, CT; TotalVision Eyecare Center. The practice moved to North Haven, in 1998.
Dr. Lefland is a past President of the Connecticut Association of Optometrists, a member of Beta Sigma Kappa, the American Optometric Association, and the American Public Health Association. He has the highest optometry certification in Connecticut.
In 2003, the Connecticut Association of Optometrists named him “Optometrist of the Year.” He also received the George E. Comstock award in 1999 and the President’s Award in 1996 , 2006 and 2021.
He has served as adjunct faculty at Quinnipiac University and worked with First-Insight on medical record software. He received an appointment to the Connecticut Board of Examiners for Optometrists in 2012 and continues servie on the Board.
Dr. Lefland lives in North Haven with his wife, Ilene. He enjoys tennis, skiing, and classical music. He also served as Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 41 in Woodbridge, CT.