Our Practice

**The Doctors Can't Wait to See You**

Connie J. Crawford, O.D., P.C.

My name is Dr. Connie Crawford. I attended the University of Iowa before starting Optometry school in Chicago. After graduating Illinois College of Optometry in 1986, my husband and I were married and moved to Gurnee. In 1989, I purchased what is now Antioch Eye Associates. We just moved into our 3rd location!

I have 3 awesome children; Christian, Andrea, and Annika who have all spent time at the eye clinic over the years, and a grandson MJ. After 32 years, I finally convinced my husband to join the practice. Establishing my practice in Antioch has been one of my most gratifying accomplishments. It is such a warm and inviting community. I feel my patients are part of the Antioch Eye Associates family.

James R. Crawford, O.D.

Hi, I'm Dr. Jim Crawford. I graduated from University of Illinois in 1982. I went on to Illinois College of Optometry where I received my Doctorate of Optometry in 1986. My career started working alongside Ophthalmologists where I spent the last 32 years. Dr. Connie finally convinced me to join Antioch Eye Associates, We opened our new office August 2018. It was the best business decision of my life. We have three wonderful children; Christian who joined our Doctor team, Andrea who helps wherever she can, and Annika who also joined us in 2025 as a Doctor.

While not in the office, I enjoy staying very busy, playing with our grandson MJ, working in the yard, playing golf, and taking walks with Dr Connie and our dogs.

Laura L. Cretors, O.D.

My name is Dr Laura Cretors, I grew up in a small town in Michigan and attended Michigan Technological University for undergrad. Next, I went on to Michigan College of Optometry where I received my Doctorate Degree in 1997 and have been here ever since.

I am heavily involved with my three kids and all their activities; I also have two dogs. I enjoy working out, taking spin classes and doing water sports in the summer. I have been a quilter for years and love showing off my creative side.

Stop by my office and take a look at my Optometry themed quilt!

Christian Crawford, OD

Hi, I'm Dr. Christian Crawford. I attended University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and graduated with a degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology in 2016. I then worked in a hematology and oncology practice prior to optometry school. I attended the Illinois College of Optometry and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2024. I enjoy fitting specialty contacts, treating and managing ocular disease, and family practice.

You will most likely meet my wife Shena who works with me here as an optician. We have 1 dog (Chief) and 1 cat (Copper). When I'm not working I enjoy golfing, reading a good book, and traveling to try new foods/restaurants with my wife. We are both very excited to see you all and take wonderful care of your eyes.

Annika Crawford, OD

My name is Annika Crawford. I attended University of Arizona from 2016-2018. I then transferred back home to University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I graduated from Illinois College of Optometry in May 2024. I am a member of the BSK optometry honors society. I have a passion for pediatrics and vision therapy.

In my free time I have a love for traveling the world in search of new adventures. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends. In the summer, you can find me on the golf course working on my swing.

Working side by side with my parents and brother is a dream come true. We cannot wait to welcome you into our family practice.

The Spectacular Staff

Denise, Office Manager

Hi, I'm Denise. I made my dream of working at Dr. Crawford's office a reality in 1991 when I started at Antioch Eye Associates. I was ecstatic when my brother Dr. James joined the practice when we opened the new location.

I have 3 children and 8 grandchildren who all keep me on my toes. My family is my world so I spend as much time as I can with them. I love soaking up the sun by our pool, and going on motorcycle trips with my husband.

Courtney, Head Tech

Hi, I'm Courtney. I have been coming to "work" at Antioch Eye Associates with my mom since I was 2 weeks old. I officially started working here the Summer of 2008. I began in the back office doing filing and eventually worked my way up to technician in 2014. I have 3 amazing children, Keslee, Parker, and Knox. You may see them at the office from time to time.

In my free time I enjoy hunting and doing home improvement projects with my husband, doing crafts with my kids and going to their sporting events, and snuggling with my 2 dogs. If you hear someone singing to the radio when you come in, it's most likely me. Can't wait to see you!

Katelyn, Tech

Hi, I'm Katelyn! I started at Antioch Eye Associates in 2022 at the front desk but worked my way up to tech! You may see me floating between both positions as I help out where ever I'm needed.

I'm originally from Louisiana which you may be able to hear in my accent. I have a passion for nature and animals. In my free time I enjoy fishing, hiking, kayaking, and really doing all things outdoors with my husband Ben! I love meeting new people, stop by and say hi!

Shena, Head Optician

Hi, my name is Shena! I graduated from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana in 2017 and joined the practice in April of 2020. I love working as an Optician and helping patients find frames and lenses that work for their everyday lives.

In my free time I love spending time with my husband, Christian, our dog Chief and cat copper. I am an avid golfer (albeit still very much a beginner) and a voracious reader. I look forward to working with you soon!

Maureen, Optician

Hi, My name is Maureen, I joined the Antioch Eye Associates family in November 2021.

When I am not working as a receptionist/optician I love to spend time with my friends and family. I enjoy traveling the country and taking weekend road trips. I look forward to my future here and can't wait to see what's in store.

Jen, Billing

Hello, I'm Jen. I've been an optician for about 20 years and just moved to Illinois from the Lake Geneva area. You will see me all over the office! I help in optical and front desk but my main focus is billing.

I'm married to Matt and we have two beautiful daughters, Tyler and Tallan. Even though they're teenagers, they still like to hang out with me so I spend a lot of time with them.

Cheri, Billing

Hi my name is Cheri! I started working at Antioch Eye Associates in May of 2010 to do medical insurance billing. I am married to my handsome husband Mike, aka Moose, and have two fabulous children, Christopher and Hanna. I have lived in the community for several years and I enjoy helping all of the familiar faces I see at the office.

When I am able to get away from work, I love to travel to my favorite place, Washington Island, where I dream of building a vacation home for my whole family to enjoy. I also enjoy being with family and friends, making jewelry, and doing DIY projects with Moose.

Kymmie, Reception

Hi, I’m Kymmie! I started at Antioch eye Associates in June 2023. I am a lifelong resident of Antioch.

I am a single mom of a wonderful little boy named Blake. When I am not working you can find me out doing something fun with him. We love to cook together and make a mess in the kitchen as well!

Vicki, Reception

Hello, my name is Vicki. I began working at AEA August of 2025. I've been married for 34 wonderful years to my husband, Mike. I have 2 amazing children & 2 amazing grandchildren. My time spent outside of AEA involves, boating, kayaking, traveling, and doing yoga. Spending time with my family at our lake home are the times that I hold most dear to me. I'll be one of the first you see as you walk into the office, I look forward to welcoming you in!