Paraoptometric of the Year Award (AOA)

About this program

The American Optometric Association (AOA) annually presents the Paraoptometric of the Year Award to recognize an individual paraoptometric who has made outstanding contributions to the profession, patients, and the public; nominees are evaluated on professionalism, public service, furthering education, and personal endorsement. Nominees must be AOA associate members in good standing, and candidates with paraoptometric certifications (CPO, CPOA, CPOT, CPOC) are encouraged; the award is a recognition honor with no specified monetary prize. Nominations are submitted via the AOA Paraoptometric of the Year submission form, and nominations for 2026 are now closed.