About Nehs Family Vision Center

We are proud of our long tradition of providing quality vision and eye health care. Founded by Dr. Douglas Nehs of Waukesha in 1960, the practice continues in the family with his eldest son Steven Nehs and Dr. Jennifer Hillmann. At Nehs Family Vision Center, there is a strong sense of family and professionalism to our office, which insures you receive not only the best eye care but honest personal attention found nowhere else.

By using the latest in eye care technology, our optometrist and eye care specialists surpass the standards for eye health care. With our large eyeglass boutique and on-site lab, Nehs Family Vision Center is Waukesha’s premier source for beautiful, affordable Designer Frames, Eyewear, Sunglasses, Shooting Glasses, contact lenses and optical repairs. Our highly trained staff will answer all of your questions and make recommendations on lenses and frames that not only fit your lifestyle but meet all of your eyeglass requirements. Whether you want a new look or the latest in Contact Lens technology, we will ensure that your visit with us will be a personalized and pleasurable one.

Dr. Jennifer Hillmann

Dr. Jennifer Hillmann is a dedicated optometrist originally from Fennimore, a charming town in southwestern Wisconsin. She pursued her undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where she majored in Pre-Optometry and Zoology, laying a solid foundation for her future career in eye care. In 2005, Dr. Hillmann earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from the prestigious Indiana University School of Optometry, which is renowned for its rigorous training and commitment to excellence in the field.

Dr. Hillmann believes that comprehensive eye examinations extend beyond merely correcting vision; they play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and enhancing her patients' quality of life. Her educational background and professional experiences make her a valuable asset in the field of optometry, dedicated to improving the eye health of her community.

Dr. Michelle Lopez

Dr. Michelle Lopez is a licensed optometrist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive eye care with a holistic approach. She prioritizes not only her patients' vision but also their overall health and well-being. Inspired by her late dog, Chubby, to pursue a career in optometry, Dr. Lopez combines her passion for helping others with her extensive training to deliver exceptional care.

Dr. Lopez graduated cum laude in 2024 from the prestigious Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO), where she was an active member of several honor societies, including the Gold Key International Honor Society and Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society. She held leadership roles in organizations such as Gold Key, Lions Club, and White Coats for Black Lives, and she mentored aspiring optometry students through PCO's Mentorship Program. Her commitment to giving back extended globally as she volunteered for the Student Optometric Service to Humanity in Brisenas, Mexico, providing over 2,000 patients with free glasses and comprehensive eye care in just one week.

Dr. Lopez’s contributions to the field have been recognized with awards like the Donald H. Evans Award and the national Alcon Student Scholarship Award. During her externship rotations across Arizona, Florida, Illinois, and Maine—including the IHS and VA systems—she received honors distinctions for her excellence in diagnosing and managing eye conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and ocular emergencies.

Dr. Lopez is no stranger to the Midwest as she earned her bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Digital Media from Marquette University and is very happy to be back and be surrounded by her family and friends.

When she’s not caring for patients, Dr. Lopez enjoys spending quality time with loved ones and never misses an opportunity to meet a furry friend. She looks forward to building long-lasting relationships with her patients at Nehs Family Vision Center and delivering exceptional eye care to the community.

Dr. Noel Arackal

Dr. Noel Arackal is a compassionate optometrist specializing in glaucoma, diabetic eye care, and dry eye treatment.

A graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry and Marquette University, he combines top-tier clinical training with a passion for patient education, helping individuals understand and take charge of their eye health.

Raised in Mt. Prospect, Illinois, Dr. Arackal’s Midwest roots shape his approachable and personalized care. Outside the clinic, he enjoys family time, running, and relaxing by the lake. Dr. Arackal is committed to delivering exceptional, comprehensive eye care to help every patient see and live their best.

Steven Nehs

Steve Nehs is an American Board Certified Optician and a Fellow National Academy of Opticians. Steve was raised in Waukesha, WI and started his career in the optometric profession as an apprentice optician working with his father, Dr. Douglas Nehs, the founder of Nehs family Vision Center.

With more than 30 years experience in the optical industry, Steve managed a large optical laboratory that fabricated 100’s of pairs of glasses a day for doctor’s all over the Midwest, trained top opticians and techs in dispensing and headed seminars on the newest lens technologies and how to apply them for the largest lens manufacturer in the world. Steve uses his vast knowledge and skills to provide the highest level of care available to every patient he serves.

Steve is married with two adult children, seven grandchildren, and two amazing dogs. He volunteers his time with the Waukesha Lion’s Club and is the Chairman of the sight conservation committee. He enjoys the outdoors, hunting, the shooting sports, and the never ending projects at home among other things.