Hello OWA members and optical industry professionals,
As the incoming President of the OWA, I am honored and thrilled to be a part of this fast-growing organization. The OWA embodies the core values of enhancing and promoting the leadership role of women in the optical industry. Together, with a dynamic group of women leaders on the Board of Directors who have diverse experience but a common passion for our industry, we will do great things!
I have dedicated my career to our industry, first as an optician and for the past 21 years with Safilo USA, responsible for the Western States luxury sales market. My entrepreneurial spirit is what drives me; I am always looking and planning ahead for the future. I reside in Southern California with my husband, Scott, and our two wonderful sons, Christopher and Cole.
It is an exciting time to lead the OWA as this year brought our 20th Anniversary! The celebrations began in New York City at International Vision Expo East with two fabulous Star Awards events. We recognized three extraordinary women for their steadfast leadership and dynamic contributions to supporting and molding the next generation of women leaders in the optical industry.
During International Vision Expo West in Las Vegas the anniversary celebrations continued with our Connection Series interactive lunchtime panel discussion. The conversation was based on Emotional Intelligence 2.0, one of three books which our members could choose as a member benefit. Friday evening we hosted our annual Red Carpet Raffle & Silent Auction Networking Event with donated items worth over $20,000 from our sponsor companies and individuals! Thank you all for your generous donations that helped exceed our goal of tripling the fundraising efforts over last year.
The evening was full of excitement as we launched our Regional Leads and Company Ambassadors Program. I had the distinct privilege of recognizing some of our founding members who were present. A special thank you must go to our members and volunteers whose support contributed to the event's success.
I look forward to my service as President of the OWA. A few of our goals for the future include implementing a new mentor program, expanding our reach with regional events, and selecting a charity to support. These are exciting times!
In closing, I would like to share one of my favorite quotes from Mother Teresa with you: "I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot. Together we can do great things!"
Tiara Claxton
OWA President
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