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Renowned optometric accreditation body announces new leadership

October 21, 2025

The Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) ensures the continued educational rigor necessary for optometry’s expanding and essential role in healthcare.

Tag(s): Inside Optometry, AOA News


Key Takeaways

  • Julie DeKinder, O.D., assumed the role of ACOE chair, and Michelle Welch, O.D., will serve as vice chair—both working to advance its mission.
  • Timothy Petito, O.D., served as ACOE chair for the past three years and will remain on the council as a member and key resource to senior leadership.
  • The ACOE is the exclusive accrediting body for professional optometric degree (O.D.) programs, optometric residency programs and optometric technician programs in the United States and Canada. 

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