The History of WIO
Women in Ophthalmology (WIO) was founded to advance the professional environment for women ophthalmologists and to champion diversity, equity, and leadership across the field.
The organization traces its roots to 1979, when Dr. Marjorie Mosier convened a small group of women ophthalmologists at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting in San Francisco. That inaugural luncheon—attended by just eight physicians—created a forum for candid discussion of shared challenges and opportunities. What began as a modest gathering evolved into a national movement grounded in mentorship, advocacy, and professional support.
Guided by early pioneers including Drs. Marjorie Mosier, Penny Asbell, Bernice Brown, Barbara Arnold, Bronwyn Bateman, and Jacqueline Lustgarten, WIO formalized its governance after Dr. Mosier finished her President tenure in 1987, incorporated in New York in 1989 under Dr. Asbell’s leadership, and achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 1994 with President Dr. Brown. In 1991, WIO secured voting representation on the AAO Council—an important milestone that affirmed its role as a respected and influential voice within organized ophthalmology. In 1997, Dr. Barbara Arnold initiated the first scientific Summer Symposium, hosted in Aspen by Dr. Bateman, and the organization flourished over the next two decades with many accomplished leaders.
Dr. Marjorie Mosier
Dr. Penny Asbell
Dr. Bernice Brown
Dr. Barbara Arnold
Dr. Jacqueline Lustgarten
Dr. Bronwyn Bateman
Beginning in 2017, board member Dr. Lisa Nijm helped lead another period of significant evolution for WIO, doubling attendance at the Summer Symposium as Program Chair, then continuing as President to strengthen infrastructure, modernize operations, and expand member engagement. Under President Dr. Erin Shriver’s leadership, the Board created WIO’s first Chief Executive Officer role in 2020 to support long-term strategy and sustainability. Dr. Nijm served as CEO until 2026 and along with subsequent Presidents, guided the organization through sustained growth, expanded programming, and greater operational sophistication.
WIO’s contemporary legacy is defined by a period of transformative growth that expanded the organization’s reach, elevated its flagship educational programs, and strengthened its foundation for long-term success. Through deliberate leadership, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, WIO evolved into a professionally structured, nationally influential organization. This legacy ensures that WIO remains not only a place of connection and mentorship, but a lasting force shaping the future of ophthalmology.
