Dr. Marie Huegel
Optometrist
Education
Undergrad: Clemson University
Optometry school: Southern College of Optometry
Residency: Associated Eye Care/Illinois College of Optometry
Languages
English
Professional Memberships
American Optometric Association
North Carolina Optometric Society
Piedmont Optometric Society
Bio
Dr. Marie Huegel was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and spent part of her middle and high school years near Columbia, South Carolina. She attended Clemson University, where she developed a strong Tiger spirit and enjoyed time on Lake Hartwell as a member of the club rowing team. Dr. Huegel earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee. She then completed a residency in ocular disease at Associated Eye Care in partnership with the Illinois College of Optometry, based in Stillwater, Minnesota. During her residency, she cultivated a special interest in dry eye disease—an area that continues to be a central focus of her clinical work.
She is actively involved in her profession through memberships in several organizations, including the American Optometric Association (AOA), the American Academy of Optometry (AAO), the North Carolina Optometric Society (NCOS), and the Piedmont Optometric Society. In addition, Dr. Huegel participates in the YoungOD Connect program, which supports new and upcoming optometrists through education and community engagement focused on full-scope practice.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Huegel enjoys spending time with her husband, Patrick, and their energetic dog, Cedar. They met playing ultimate frisbee, which they both still enjoy to this day. They have lived in Charlotte for several years and love exploring nearby towns and attractions.
Dr. Huegel is passionate about building long-term relationships with her patients and delivering quality, personalized eye care. She is currently welcoming new patients.
1) Why did you become an optometrist?
From an early age, I was fascinated by the complexities of the human body and drawn to the medical field. It helps that my Mom is in the medical field, and I've always enjoyed picking her brain. During a shadowing experience with an optometrist, I found the missing piece in my career path. Optometry offers the ideal blend of patient interaction, a balanced lifestyle, and the opportunity to address systemic health conditions through eye care.
2) What inspired you to practice in Charlotte, NC?
Family has always been an important part of my life, and I knew early on that I wanted to live close to them after finishing my education. Growing up, we often visited Charlotte and fell in love with everything the city had to offer, from discovering new restaurants to attending local festivals. After completing my residency, I made the move, and I truly enjoy calling Charlotte my new home!
3) What is your favorite thing about being an eye doctor?
I love being able to help improve people's vision while providing quality care! Educating and teaching patients about their ocular health is also just as rewarding!
4) What do you feel makes Reflect Vision Care different?
Reflect Vision Care has advanced technology for diagnosing and treating eye conditions, which allows us to deliver exceptional care. Our dedicated staff and doctors genuinely care about each patient, creating a welcoming environment with clear communication and a commitment to helping everyone who walks through our doors!
5) What do you like to do when you're not seeing patients?
Outside of the clinic, I love spending time with my family, friends, and my labrador dog, Cedar! We love to go hiking, explore new restaurants, and travel. I also enjoy reading, watching movies, and board games.
