AOA Leadership Institute

"The AOA Leadership Institute program was developed by the AOA Leadership Development Committee to inspire the next generation of leaders within the AOA and its affiliates. The AOA Leadership Institute is a 12-month program with virtual components throughout the year as well as in-person lectures, focus groups and a reception at Optometry’s Meeting ®.

The aim is to energize and equip the next generation of champions for optometry, who will then be ready to step in and lead at all levels—local, state and beyond. The goal is to have a diverse leadership class each year that accurately represents the demographics of our rising generation of doctors of optometry. The Leadership Institute program will provide valuable lessons that can be applied to participants’ personal and professional development."

Learn more about the AOA Leadership Institute

This course is free for NYSOA/AOA Members

Interested in learning about your leadership brand, honing your negotiation and public speaking skills as well as leading change in your every day life? Click here to apply!

Hiring a new associate or have a new doctor joining your team? Nominate them for candidacy into this program by clicking here!

AOA Leadership Institute 1.0 Graduates

2021

Shelby Leach, O.D.
Hunter Morgan, O.D.
Alyssa Putman, O.D.
Thuy Tran, O.D. 

2022 

Benjamin Arthur, O.D. 
Matthew Bovenzi, O.D.
Amy Steinway, O.D.
Lauren Strawn, O.D.
Kimberly Wadas, O.D.

2023 

Marianna Butera, O.D.
Damaris Raymondi, O.D.
Ben Smith, O.D.
Deborah Wang, O.D.

2024

Julie Song, O.D.
Emily Topi, O.D.

 AOA Leadership Institute 2.0 Graduates

2023

Marina Su, O.D.
Saysha Blazier, O.D.