AOA+ /
AOA+ Pledge
AOA+ Pledge
Like no other industry opportunity, AOA+ is a unique experience for optometry students, residents and faculty, as well as new graduates, to take their professional involvement to the next level. AOA+ brings together the profession’s next generation of leaders for a four-day, immersive experience in career development, skill building, networking and advocacy in our nation’s capital.
The inaugural AOA+ in 2017 engaged a groundbreaking 2,000+ students and new doctors in Washington, D.C., during Optometry’s Meeting, in conjunction with AOA on Capitol Hill. That gathering gave attendees a singular vantage point into how being part of our family can support doctors professionally and personally.
Today, we are a larger and stronger family because of it. More than half of all participating students and two-thirds of participating doctors continued their membership in the years following the inaugural AOA+, a resounding marker of success and an indicator that AOA achieved meaningful and ongoing engagement. Now, in 2026, the AOA will once again unite these groups under the AOA+ banner in Phoenix, Arizona.
The AOA and AOSA are helping over 2,000 optometry students, residents, new graduates and faculty attend AOA+ at Optometry’s Meeting 2026 with travel grants available on a first-come, first-served basis. To receive an AOA+ Travel Grant, attendees must register for Optometry’s Meeting to be included in the grant selection pool (a registration deadline will be forthcoming).
Join AOA in encouraging all of optometry’s students, residents, new graduates and faculty to experience next year’s AOA+ at Optometry’s Meeting. Like no other industry opportunity, AOA+ is a unique opportunity for students, residents and faculty, as well as new graduates, to take their professional involvement to the next level. AOA+ brings together programming for the profession’s next generation of leaders in a four-day, immersive experience focused on career development, skill building, networking and advocacy.
Those who sign the pledge:
- Recognize optometry’s essential and expanding role in health care and the opportunities ahead to make America healthier.
- Join in urging all optometry students, as well as residents, new graduates and faculty, to participate in AOA+ 2026 and commit to career-long involvement in optometry’s advancement.
Organizations Pledging Support
Sign the pledge below and make a commitment to participate in this landmark event.
Fill out my online form.
Register for Optometry’s Meeting® 2026
Want to take your skills, connections and optometric knowledge to the next level? Then join fellow colleagues, industry professionals and thought leaders at Optometry's Meeting & AOA+ 2026, June 17-20, in Phoenix, and experience the vast continuing education, networking and advocacy opportunities available!
Download your 2026 Conference Preview
The 2026 Conference Preview is your digital guide to Optometry's Meeting & AOA+, June 17-20, in Phoenix. Review our schedule at a glance, continuing education highlights, AOA+ programming, Eye Care Square exhibit hall information, special events and more.
