2026 Lead AROA Leadership Program

Begin your journey with the ArOA LEADership class today! Applications due April 17, 2026.

Apply for the upcoming class here.

• Would you like to become more involved in your state and national association?
• Are you interested in taking a leadership role in your practice, community, or civic organization?
• Would you like to learn more about your own leadership style and develop experience in various forms of communication and advocacy?

If your answer is “yes!” consider applying for LEAD, the Arkansas Leadership Program. The future success of the Arkansas Optometric Association depends greatly upon visionary leaders who will continue to preserve, promote and advance optometry in our state.

LEAD (Learn, Explore, Advocate and Define) is designed to cultivate emerging leaders within organized optometry in Arkansas—equipping participants with the skills, perspective, and connections needed to take on leadership roles within their practice, community, and the profession.

Why LEAD?

LEAD is designed to prepare the next generation of leaders for our association & to help our members become better leaders in their practice and community.

What is the commitment?

There are 4 sessions spread out during the year with as little time away from your practice as possible. Registration is $500.

2026-2027 Schedule at a Glance

Session 1: Learn - Sept 18-19, 2026: TBA
Session 2: Explore - Oct 24, 2026: Hot Springs
Session 3: Advocate - January, 2027: Little Rock
Session 4: Define - April 29, 2027: Little Rock

There will be homework, but it will be applicable to the learning – for example, exploring ways to involve yourself in the community, learning who your state legislators are, and social media.

Learn your personality style!

Explore effective ways to communicate!

Advocate for your profession!

Define your leadership profile!

Apply Today
Applications due April 17, 2026.