05/23/2026
Progress happens when vision becomes reality! Now is the time.
Exciting developments in our profession as the United Opticians Association and the come together with a shared vision for the future of opticianry!
This momentum will benefit every optician, every eyecare practice, and most importantly every patient we serve.
We are stronger together. One profession. One vision. One future!
Phernell Walker, MBA, ABOM
Chairperson American Board of Opticianry
ABO NCLE Insight Media Group VSP Providers Opticians on Facebook American Academy of Optometry Professional Opticians of Florida International Opticians Association - IOA Opticians Association of Georgia Opticians Association of Oregon Opticians Association of Colorado Opticians Association of Washington
The National Academy of Opticianry (NAO) and the United Opticians Association (UOA) announced today that the NAO Fellow Members, and the UOA Board of Directors, each voted to authorize the beginning of the formal merger or asset transfer process between the two organizations. These actions follow the Letter of Intent jointly approved by both Boards in April and represent a coordinated commitment to advance the next phase of due diligence and planning.
“This vote allows the process to continue responsibly and transparently,” said Gwen Cooper, Executive Director of UOA and Chair of the Joint Steering Committee. “Both organizations remain committed to a thorough review that ensures any final decision is in the best interest of the profession, the members we serve, the students of the Ophthalmic Career Progression Program (OCPP) and the long term sustainability of opticianry education and advocacy.”
As the due diligence process continues, both NAO and UOA emphasize that all current operations, member services, and educational programs, including the Ophthalmic Career Progression Program (OCPP), will continue without interruption. Nothing in this process will disrupt ongoing work, and both organizations are committed to ensuring a seamless integration of processes, membership systems, educational offerings, and program delivery now and in the future.
During this due diligence period, the Joint Steering Committee will continue its structured evaluation of:
• Financial and legal obligations
• Programmatic integration opportunities
• Operational and staffing considerations
• Member services and educational continuity
“NAO and UOA share a long standing commitment to strengthening the opticianry profession,” said Diane Drake, NAO’s Board President. “This process is designed to ensure that our future alignment is thoughtful, well planned, and grounded in the best interests of our members and the communities we serve. Our members can be confident that their programs, benefits, and educational pathways will remain strong and uninterrupted throughout this transition.”
For questions, please reach out to [email protected].
