2025 OWA Events At Vision Expo West and Silmo

The OWA is hosting three events during Vision Expo West in Las Vegas, Nevada. Shortly thereafter, the OWA will be hosting a networking event at Silmo in Paris, France. We welcome everyone to join us to network with your colleagues and learn more about what the OWA has to offer.

Register Now for Vision Expo West!  OWA Members can register for free plus receive 15% off Unlimited Education using this code: OWA25. The OWA greatly appreciates its partnership with International Vision Expo, who generously provide space and numerous other considerations for our events.

Connection Series Luncheon: Spark Sessions: Women Who Light the Fire

Date: Thursday, September 18

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM PST

Location: Venetian Level 3 — Murano, Room 3304

At this year's VEW Connection Series luncheon, the OWA's Spark Sessions will highlight powerful perspectives from women who lead with purpose, vulnerability, and vision — through the lens of the OWA pillars: Connect, Inspire, and Lead. Generously sponsored by VSP Vision, this event is a great way to meet colleagues and fellow OWA members. You'll walk away ready to light your own fire!

Moderator Erinn Morgan brings decades of expertise in content strategy, storytelling, social media, and industry trendspotting as the founder of Insight Media Group and the content marketing firm, Envision Communication.

• Dr. Melissa Barnett, optometrist, global speaker, podcaster, and mindful leadership life coach, represents Connect with a grounded and energizing message on building relationships, mentorship, and caring for ourselves while uplifting others.

• Dr. Audrey Sue Cruz, healthcare ambassador and influencer, embodies Inspire as she blends influence and authenticity to spark action — on social media, in medicine, and in everyday life.

• Sue Downes, CEO and Co-Founder of MyEyeDoctor, exemplifies Lead through her transformative leadership in the optical industry, proving what's possible when women lead with purpose and vision.

Come prepared to connect, reflect, and walk away ready to light your own fire! Everyone is welcome, including non-members, but advance registration is required. Seating is limited, so sign up now!

Registration Deadline: Friday, September 5, 2025 — RSVP HERE

BID$ and BEVS Networking Event

Date: Friday, September 19

Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM PST

Location: Venetian Level 3 — Murano, Room 3304

The OWA invites you to their annual Friday reception at Vision Expo West. EyeMed Vision Care is proud to sponsor the evening's refreshments, so don't miss this exciting opportunity to network, bid on some fabulous auction items, and win a raffle prize or two!

Everyone is welcome, including non-members, but advance registration is required. Capacity is limited, so sign up now!

Registration Deadline: Friday, September 5, 2025 — RSVP HERE

Her Story: Honoring Strength in Optical

Date: Friday, September 19

Time: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM PST

Location: Innovation Stage

Join the Optical Women's Association on the Innovation Stage as we proudly present Her Story: Honoring Strength in Optical — a moving tribute to the women in our industry who have courageously battled cancer.

OWA President Megan Molony and Her Story Founder Mikki Collins will lead a heartfelt presentation recognizing the powerful stories behind the campaign. Together with members of the Her Story Committee, they will celebrate participating sponsors, and announce the winning submissions that best reflect the campaign's spirit of perseverance.

A very special moment will be dedicated to honoring this year's Her Story Hero — a woman in optical whose journey through cancer has inspired a community.

This event is a celebration of resilience, unity, and the unwavering support that defines the optical industry. All Vision Expo attendees are welcome to join us for this inspiring and empowering presentation.

No registration required.

OWA Networking Event at SILMO!

Date: Thursday, September 26

Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM CEST

Location: Paris Nord Villepinte — SILMO Talks stage ZAC Paris Nord 2, 93420 Villepinte

Join us for "Seeing Beyond: The Power of Women in Optical Innovation". A powerhouse panel of accomplished executive leaders facilitated by OWA International Expansion Committee Chair Nancy Gries. Panelists Olga Prenat (Essilor-Luxottica), Kivilcim Erdogan (Bausch & Lomb), and Atissa Tadjadod (Silhouette) will share insights into their journeys in optical innovation.

The discussion will do a deep dive on how women are driving change in technology, AI, human resources, sustainability, and vision health. This event promises to inspire and empower future optical leaders!

This event, including a champagne toast, is graciously sponsored by SILMO. Space is limited so advance registration is recommended.

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 — RSVP HERE