AAO Awards

Women in Ophthalmology is a special interest society of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. This relationship provides WIO with the opportunity to have a seat on the AAO Council, host symposia and meetings during the AAO annual meeting and have access to special programs and awards for our members.

WIO is proud to partner with the AAO on the following awards and initiatives:

AAO Advocacy Ambassador Program

The Advocacy Ambassador Program was established in 2004 by the Secretariat for State Affairs to educate residents and fellows early in their careers about the importance of political action and involvement in organized ophthalmology at both the state and national levels. The Secretariat collaborates with Women in Ophthalmology to support the attendance of members-in-training at the Mid-Year Forum, Congressional Advocacy Day and the spring Council Meeting. The AAO provides complimentary registration and WIO provides a travel stipend to the chosen resident or fellow.

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AAO Leadership Development Program

This highly competitive program seeks to provide both orientation and skill development to future leaders of state, subspecialty and specialized interest societies in order to groom individuals with the potential to become leaders in ophthalmology, provide orientation and skills to allow potential leaders to promote ophthalmology locally and nationally and facilitate the promotion of program graduates into leadership positions both locally and nationally.

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WIO 2026 Award & Networking at AAO

Interested In Becoming A Member Of Women in Ophthalmology?