See victory in a whole new light

Get ready for the next evolution of optometric pride and competition.  

For decades, the Student Bowl has electrified Optometry’s Meeting®—a beloved, high-energy tradition where students from across the country battle it out in a spirited, quiz-style showdown. With thousands of cheering classmates, alumni and fans, it has become a nationally recognized celebration of knowledge, pride and the future of the profession. Each year, a new winner takes the trophy—passed on from champion to champion. 

Now, the excitement is rising to a whole new level. 

Beginning in 2026, the AOA—together with the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA)—will usher this iconic event into its next chapter: the AOA EyeQ Championship, presented by AOAExcel®.  

“With this new chapter, we’re creating a competition shaped by student insight that delivers an exciting experience that reflects the next generation’s priorities, passion and vision for the future of the profession. We’re grateful for the strong support this program has received over the years, and we’re energized by the opportunity to expand this fun event with AOSA and AOAExcel in fresh, student-driven ways,” says AOA President Jacquie M. Bowen, O.D. 

“This competition is the event students most look forward to. The AOSA is thrilled to take it to a whole new level, together with the AOA and AOAExcel, in celebration of the future of optometry,” says James Chung, AOSA president and fourth-year optometry student at The Ohio State University College of Optometry. 

“AOAExcel is proud to support the AOA EyeQ Championship and celebrate the next generation of optometrists," says Bibin Cherian, O.D., AOAExcel board member and AOSA past president. "Not only is AOAExcel an invaluable asset to ODs as they begin their careers, but it’s also a resource I've personally relied on as well. I'm excited for students and early career ODs to learn more about AOAExcel through its support of this iconic event.” 

Join us as we celebrate the evolution of a tradition—and the bright future of optometry. The AOA EyeQ Championship: Where knowledge meets excitement, and the next generation takes the prize. 

Save the date! Optometry’s Meeting 2026 in Phoenix 

Optometry's Meeting is the premier annual event for AOA and AOSA members, powered by four days of industry-renowned education, innovative and future-looking conversations, career development and leadership opportunities. Welcoming optometrists, paraoptometric professionals and optometry students alike, the 129th Annual AOA Congress & 58th Annual AOSA Conference: Optometry's Meeting aims to make an impact for our profession. 

June 17-20 in Phoenix, this year will deliver an event like no other, where attendees can advance their careers, grow as leaders and connect with the profession. Combined with the third AOA+ experience, there will be opportunities for everyone to experience and advance the profession we all love. Over 2,000 AOA+ attendees will participate in this early career-defining experience—and the AOA’s committed to covering your ticket. The AOA is offering travel grants to ensure over a quarter of the entire optometry student population, as well as early career doctors and optometric educators, can attend this impactful programming. A limited number of grants will be available when registration opens for Optometry’s Meeting in January 2026.  

If you have any questions, please check out our FAQs page or email optometrysmeeting@aoa.org. Sign up for early access to registration, workshops and exclusive events.