In 2017, the OWA launched the series of regional networking events in five locations: Dallas, New York, Minneapolis, Alexandria, and San Diego. Since the launch of the program, the OWA continues to add new regions. The latest locations are Los Angeles, California — hosted by Tiara Claxton; Minneapolis, Minnesota — hosted by Lorinda Fraboni; and Columbus, Ohio — hosted by Stacey Curcio.
The networking events across the country give OWA members an opportunity to engage and socialize with their peers on a regular basis. The regional events have been a huge success. They have fostered a perfect environment for inspiration and connection. Due to all of the efforts of the membership team, led by Deb Bulken and Lorinda Fraboni, the OWA membership has added over 700 optical industry members this past year.
"Hosting OWA networking events in cities across the country gives OWA members a platform to continue to share experiences and inspire the women in our industry," said Kathy Rismiller, host of the Dallas OWA networking event in November. "We had a great turn out for our November event, as over 35 members attended, and several new non-members joined from corporations within in the Dallas community. I personally dedicate my individual and professional support to this organization, as I strongly believe that we are building an organization filled with members who serve as inspiration for us all."
Two other regions held their inaugural events in November.
The Inaugural OWA Columbus regional event was held Thursday November 30th at The Idea Foundry. Hosted by Stacey Curcio of VSP with special guests Dr. Lorie Lippiatt (Co-Chair OWA PDF committee), Deb Bulken (Co-Chair OWA Membership committee), and Marielle Blumenthal (Ohio State University Optometry Student, Luxottica Retail OWA Scholarship Award Winner).
The unique event location added to the lively meet and greet opening, as women from over eight different companies were welcomed with light refreshments and the opportunity to mingle.
The evening program began with introductions, followed by a round-table presentation given by Dr. Lorie Lippiatt. She described the value of the OWA, benefits to membership, and shared personal reflections of her experience with the OWA.
Deb Bulken added additional insights and answered the many enthusiastic questions from attendees wanting to become members (7 new members joined!) Marielle, our student scholarship award winner, also spoke about her excitement in joining the OWA and the value it will bring to her while finishing her studies at Ohio State.
The evening concluded with a raffle of Tiffany and Coach sunglasses, generously donated by Deb Bulken from Luxottica. It was a great success! And we are happy to report that Stacey Curcio of VSP has graciously agreed to spear-head future regional events in the Columbus, OH region.
Attendees of the inaugural Minneapolis event held on November 28th, 6 to 7:30 pm, at the beautiful Walman Corporate Building near downtown Minneapolis which was remodeled last year. Guests were treated to beverages and appetizers by hosts Lorinda Fraboni and Michelle Brown of Walman Optical.
Lorinda Fraboni, Membership Co-Chair, kicked off the event by introducing the attendees to what the OWA is all about including suggestions for getting involved. She highlighted the path her membership in OWA has followed: first joining committees, then participating more deeply as a vice chair, then board member, officer, and a Regional Leader.
Jean Sabre, owner of Uptown Vision and Mentoring Committee Co-Chair, shared what the OWA meant to her, ". . . having resources outside of her family [to] make friends in the optical industry outside of her business."
Then the FUN began: attendees played a Name your song get to know you game.
The evening ended with a conversation about what would compel the attendees to attend a future event.
Great ideas for any location and sure to be implemented in future Minneapolis events. The event was deemed a success even though the numbers were small 15 RSVP'd — 13 were in attendance.
Walman Optical has graciously volunteered to host 4 events each year — February, May, August, and November.
The OWA continues to host regional events. Invitations will be sent out by region, so please make sure to update your membership member profile and visit the OWA online for more information regarding upcoming events.
If you would like to host a local event, please contact the Membership Committee Co-Chairs: or .
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