Dear OWA Members,
I am very excited about the opportunities for OWA. As this is my first President’s letter, I thought about why I joined the OWA back in 1997. When I received my first announcement on the Optical Women’s organization, I felt compelled to become a member. As a woman in the optical industry and a woman business owner, I needed to join. I was hoping that it would give me an opportunity to meet other like-minded individuals in the optical world.
For me, this organization is about women and for women. We have an incredible Board of Directors and dedicated committee members who work to ensure that we have a voice in the industry. I am so pleased to have met these women and am impressed by their accomplishments. I have also loved meeting members at our functions and want to meet more women, so I can hear from you what you want from this organization.
Recently, I read about a sister organization in the cosmetics industry called Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW), celebrating their 50th anniversary. It was a huge affair with every major player in the industry out to celebrate women and their accomplishments. I found it interesting that 50 years ago, the founding members were in secretarial positions. They met monthly to network and support each other and to build their careers. In time the organization grew, as did the responsibilities of these women. Today, women lead many of the major cosmetic companies and CEW raises money for important causes and is very influential in the business world.
I was inspired by the CEW and see some correlations with the OWA. While the OWA is only a few years old, our membership does have incredible women with great careers. We just need more time and the commitment of women at all levels of the optical industry to work with us on key issues. For that I only ask that each of you try to find the time to communicate and let us know what you want and need from the OWA. It is our commitment that all women in this industry realize the OWA is here for them. We want to acknowledge accomplishments and inspire to reach ever higher in careers. Members have expressed interest in supporting and mentoring women in the industry. It is amazing what can be accomplished with the support of friends and peers. That is what the OWA is about and we welcome everyone to be involved.
Corrine McCormack
OWA President