Meet the next generation of optometry leaders

Optometry has 128 new leaders who are ready to shape the future of the field. 

The 2025 class of the AOA Leadership Institute—a program with two unique components, 1.0 and 2.0, designed to engage and equip the upcoming generation of optometry’s champions to take on leadership roles within the AOA and its affiliates—graduated at Optometry’s Meeting® in June. 

“Leadership development is essential for ODs, so we can take an active role in advancing and protecting our profession,” says Mary Kate Walters, O.D., a 2025 graduate of the 1.0 program. “The program gave me practical tools and new perspectives that I’ve been able to apply both in my practice and in organized optometry.” 

The Leadership Institute was developed by the AOA Leadership Development Committee and is supported by Johnson & Johnson and EssilorLuxottica. 

“My biggest takeaway from the Leadership Institute 1.0 is that leadership is not necessarily a choice,” says Emmanuel Gbolabo, O.D., a 2025 graduate. Doctors of optometry take leadership roles with patients, staff and, sometimes, colleagues, he says. “It is important to mold ourselves into the best leaders we can be.” 

Leadership Institute 1.0 

Leadership Institute 1.0 is a 6-month program consisting of virtual and in-person training, focus groups and networking opportunities. It covers topics including public speaking, leadership brand, negotiation skills, and leading change. 

Graduate Elaine Petry, O.D., says the Leadership Institute taught her not to fear negotiation. “Once you learn a few key strategies, it starts to feel a lot more natural,” she says. “Same with public speaking—it used to seem intimidating, but I’ve realized it’s a great way to get your message across and connect with a bigger audience.” 

Participants are divided into cohorts with whom they work closely throughout the program. “The biggest takeaway comes from advice and insight I received from my cohort members,” says Gabrielle Magee, O.D., a 2025 graduate. “They helped me navigate different situations that arose at work and grow as a leader where I practice.” Dr. Magee also watched fellow 1.0 participants lecture and present a poster at Optometry’s Meeting. “It was great getting to see them demonstrate their leadership abilities in real time,” she says. 

The 1.0 program is open to early career, active AOA member doctors of optometry. It aims to build a diverse leadership class each year that reflects the changing demographics of new doctors of optometry. Participants graduate with the skillset and confidence to lead at all levels—local, state and beyond. 

“For anyone thinking about participating in the Leadership Institute, I would strongly encourage you to do so,” says 2025 graduate Jacobi Cleaver, O.D. “Strong leadership and participation has gotten optometry to where it is now. In order to continue to propel this great profession forward, we will need more leaders and more participation.” 

Leadership Institute 2.0 

Leadership Institute 2.0 is a three-day, in-person leadership development program. Up to 50 participants will build on their leadership skills through deeper dives into media training, working with industry, building relationships with legislators, strategic planning, and committee leadership. Participation in the 1.0 program is not required. 

The Leadership Development Committee is hosting its third Leadership Institute 2.0 program September 26-28 in Washington, D.C., part of AOA on Capitol Hill. For questions or additional information, contact Stacey Struckhoff at leadershipinstitute@aoa.org. 

Help the AOA identify the next generation of great optometric leaders 

Anyone can make a nomination for the 2026 Leadership Institute program. We encourage affiliate leadership, schools and colleges, and AOA member doctors to nominate colleagues. 

Deadlines: 

• Nominations close Oct. 31 
• Applications close Nov. 7 
• Class of 2026 notified Dec. 1