The initial meeting was September 13, 1997, at Vision Expo West. So it's only fitting that we have a chance to celebrate together at Vision Expo, starting September 14, 2017.
In our 20th year, the board of directors and committees have worked very hard to further increase the value of OWA membership and expand the benefits the OWA offers to its members.
"Tuesday Talks" — inspiring webinars from some of the most interesting women in the industry was organized by the Mentoring Committee and introduced as a monthly event.
Three regional meetings meant to foster introductions and mentoring have been held. It's a great way to meet other members and learn about the benefits of the OWA. More are in the planning.
The Membership committee has grown our membership by 185 since July of last year, increasing our membership to over 625! That's a 44% increase in one year. Great job Membership Committee! This has been accomplished with the help of almost all the other committees.
The Professional Development Fund Committee, in partnership with the Membership Committee, implemented the Corporate Ambassador program. Through this program, sponsor companies assign one or two ambassadors who work as liaisons with all OWA committees to ensure all benefits are communicated to their employees in a regular and timely manner. The ambassador also actively works to recruit and retain members.
The Website Design Committee has redesigned the website to make it more intuitive to navigate and find what you're looking for. It has also been optimized so that it can be easily viewed and accessed from any device, whether desktop, tablet, or phone. If you haven't been to the website recently, go to www.opticalwomen.com and take a look around on your phone or whatever device you happen to be using.
The Digital Marketing Committee has worked very hard to grow the OWA's online presence and to keep it current and useful. Check out the OWA from these sites:
The Program Committee continues to outdo itself with the Vision Expo East and West events. Great themes, great venues, and great company! It you haven't attended, register today!
The Communications Committee is committed to producing newsletters on a fixed and timely schedule. Is there a subject you would like to see covered in an upcoming newsletter? Let them know!
The Nominating committee continues to seek out the best of the best candidates for the Board of Directors.
Please join us for the Connection Series or the Networking Reception and Raffle to toast the OWA's 20 years!
Back to: August 2017 : August 2017 Newsletter