AAO 2026 Outstanding Advocate Award
The Outstanding Advocate Award was created in 2008 to recognize Academy members who participate in advocacy-related efforts at either the state and/or federal level. Nominees must perform advocacy functions in their capacity as an ophthalmologist. This year WIO will submit our nomination for this prestigious award from within our organization. In order to be considered as the WIO Sponsored nominee the following criteria must be met.
Nominee Eligibility & Selection Criteria
1. Mandatory Eligibility Requirements
A “No” to any of these immediately disqualifies the nominee from further consideration.
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Dual Membership: The nominee must hold active membership in both Women in Ophthalmology (WIO) and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).
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Good Standing: The nominee must be a member in good standing with both organizations at the time of the vote.
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AAO Status: Must be a Fellow, Member, or International Member of the Academy.
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No Self-Nominations: The nomination must have been submitted by a third party.
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Dual Membership: Is the nominee currently an active member in good standing with both Women in Ophthalmology (WIO) and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
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Ethical Standing: Is the nominee’s professional conduct fully consonant with the AAO Code of Ethics?
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Lifetime Limit: Has the nominee ever received this specific AAO award before? (Individuals are eligible only once in their lifetime).
2. Service Thresholds
The committee should look for evidence of sustained commitment rather than a single event.
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Duration: Has the nominee demonstrated a pattern of advocacy over a period of at least several years?
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Level of Impact: Does the service include engagement at the State and/or Federal levels?
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Personal Sacrifice: Does the service exceed the “usual” requirements of a volunteer role (e.g., significant time away from practice, personal financial contributions, or high-level leadership stress)?
3. Qualifying Advocacy Pillars
A strong nominee should demonstrate excellence in at least two of the following categories:
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Legislative/Regulatory – Successfully lobbying for AAO-endorsed bills; negotiating with Members of Congress; securing coalition partners for advocacy.
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Political Growth – Spearheading political fundraisers; instrumental growth of a State Ophthalmology PAC.
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Grassroots Leadership – Implementing a State Legislator Advocacy Plan (Key Contact programs); lead participation in Congressional Advocacy Day.
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Educational/Mentorship – Creating or presenting Advocacy Programs for Residents at the state level.
- Cross-Organizational – Holding key leadership positions in state medical associations to champion ophthalmology concerns.