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OWA Unplugged member in front of a large tree

Raising Up Women In The Optical Industry Isn't Boring!

The OWA offers both in-person and virtual events to cultivate connection, inspiration, and leadership. Network with your peers and fuel professional and personal development with the OWA’s versatile events.

Upcoming Events

  • OWA Unplugged Retreat
    OWA Unplugged Retreat
    Fri, Oct 18
    Charleston
    Oct 18, 2024, 4:00 PM EDT – Oct 20, 2024, 11:00 AM EDT
    Charleston, 20 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA
    Oct 18, 2024, 4:00 PM EDT – Oct 20, 2024, 11:00 AM EDT
    Charleston, 20 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA
    OWA members, register now for the second annual OWA Unplugged retreat! This year's event is October 18-20, 2024, and the location is the Charleston Harbor Resort in Mt. Pleasant, SC.

Champagne Breakfast 

Each year the OWA presents awards to individuals who exemplify a passion for promoting the role of women in our industry. The recipients are honored during Vision Expo East at the annual, and highly anticipated, Champagne Breakfast and Star Awards Ceremony. It’s a spectacular opening event to kick off Vision Expo East.

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OWA Unplugged

OWA's first-ever retreat was held in San Diego, CA, in 2023. Deliberately limiting attendance to 40 OWA members, the purpose of the retreat is to provide an opportunity to “unplug”, connect, recharge, relax, and be truly present in the moment. 

Connection Series

During the annual Connection Series event hosted during Vision Expo West, members and guests can connect on topics that matter, enriching their personal and professional lives. This popular event has become an OWA "signature series" overseen by the OWA Events Committee.

OWA member giving a speach
3 OWA members posing at networking event

Regional Events

OWA is always on the road holding small regional networking events connecting members and recruiting new women to learn more about the benefits of joining OWA. Interested in hosting an event in your area? Contact the Connection & Enrichment Committee. 

OWA Fireside Chats

The bimonthly OWA Fireside Chats allow members to gather, network, and grow— personally and professionally—while also having some fun! These events are a combination of advisory groups and open discussion to allow for greater connection on a personal level. Fireside Chats provide an opportunity for both new and experienced members to join a networking group that encompasses many interests.

OWA members sitting around a fire, by a lake at night
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Networking Events

During Vision Expo East and Vision Expo West, the OWA Events Committee regularly hosts networking events where OWA members and nonmembers can connect and network. During Vision Expo East, the "Stars, Sips, and Scholarships" event continues the celebration of OWA's annual award honorees and leadership scholarship recipients. During Vision Expo West, the annual OWA Networking Reception and Raffle is the place to connect with colleagues, bid on some fabulous auction items, and win a raffle prize or two!

Past Events

Take a look at the fun from our past events.