The AOA Leadership Institute Graduates

The AOA LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
The American Optometric Association’s (AOA) Leadership Development Committee is thrilled to introduce the graduating class of the 2023 AOA Leadership Institute. This program was designed to help support and foster a diverse group of emerging leaders in our profession. The Florida Optometric Association is proud to recognize the following members of our association who graduated with the 2023 AOA Leadership Institute class.

•  Brooke Kibel, OD 
•  Brianna Livingston, OD 
•  Jessica Steen, OD 
•  Benjamin Thayil, OD

These members were nominated by our association and selected by the AOA Leadership Development Committee. Participation in this program will nurture and foster leadership skills which will be applicable in every aspect of their professional and personal lives.

The AOA Leadership Institute is a 12-month long program that has both virtual and in-person components; the curriculum includes four topics: leadership brand, public speaking, negotiation skills and leading change. At the conclusion of the yearlong program, we hope these members will serve in a volunteer leadership role and will contribute to our profession and our state association moving forward! Please join us in congratulating our emerging leaders!


The AOA LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE 2.0
The AOA Leadership Development Committee is thrilled to introduce the inaugural graduating class of the 2023 AOA Leadership Institute 2.0 program. This program was developed to continue the education of and engagement with our next generation of leaders within the AOA and its affiliates. The AOA Leadership Institute 2.0 was held in St. Louis from October 27-–29, 2023. The Florida Optometric Association is proud to recognize the following members of our association who graduated with the 2023 AOA Leadership Institute 2.0 class.

• Nora Lee Cothran, OD
• Benjamin Thayil, OD

The AOA Leadership Institute 2.0 curriculum included an Insights professional development seminar, public speaking and media training, allyship as a leadership skill, building relationships with legislators, and a session on what you need to know to lead a committee/be a good committee member. We are so proud of our graduates who continue on their leadership path, contributing to their communities, the profession and their state and national associations!