AOA Executive and Leadership Team

Albert Agboola, the Chief Executive Officer at AOA, directs the overarching strategic vision for the federation of optometric associations. Agboola manages the alignment of national policy with the needs of state, student, and armed forces members. By overseeing the integration of professional standards, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the organization remains the primary advocate for eye care practitioners. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine long-term goals and expand the influence of the profession. Albert Agboola drives initiatives that strengthen the connection between eye doctors and the public, fostering improved vision health outcomes. Through rigorous oversight of organizational resources, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the financial and operational health of the association. Agboola secures the future of the profession by championing legislative priorities and professional development programs that benefit members across the entire country.

Rebecca Hildebrand, the Chief Operating Officer at AOA, manages the daily internal functions and administrative infrastructure of the federation. Hildebrand optimizes the operational workflows that support state and student associations, ensuring seamless service delivery. By coordinating cross-departmental projects, the Chief Operating Officer maintains high efficiency in the execution of organizational programs. This role requires constant monitoring of internal processes to support the broader mission of eye care advocacy. Rebecca Hildebrand drives the implementation of scalable systems that allow the association to handle complex membership needs effectively. Through the management of internal resources, the Chief Operating Officer supports the strategic goals set by the executive team. Hildebrand ensures that all operational activities remain aligned with the core values of the organization, facilitating a productive environment for staff and members alike while maintaining excellence in service delivery.

Brian Moore, the President, Local Society (Mid-State) at AOA, directs regional engagement and grassroots advocacy efforts within the mid-state territory. Moore manages the local network of eye care professionals, ensuring that regional concerns reach the national federation. By overseeing local meetings and professional development workshops, the President, Local Society (Mid-State) fosters a strong sense of community among practitioners. This role involves translating national strategic goals into actionable local initiatives that improve patient care. Brian Moore drives the growth of the local society by recruiting new members and encouraging active participation in association events. Through the coordination of regional activities, the President, Local Society (Mid-State) strengthens the overall impact of the organization. Moore ensures that local practitioners remain informed about industry trends and legislative changes, maintaining a high standard of practice throughout the region.

Beth Thompson, the Auxiliary President at AOA, directs the activities and outreach programs of the auxiliary branch. Thompson manages the support network that complements the professional efforts of the association, focusing on community awareness and public health education. By overseeing volunteer initiatives and educational campaigns, the Auxiliary President expands the reach of the organization into local communities. This role involves coordinating with other leaders to ensure that auxiliary efforts align with the broader mission of promoting eye health. Beth Thompson drives the development of programs that engage families and the public in vision care awareness. Through the management of auxiliary resources, the Auxiliary President supports the overall goals of the federation. Thompson ensures that the auxiliary remains a vital partner in the advocacy for optometry, fostering a deeper understanding of the essential role eye doctors play in healthcare.

Matthew Gerstberger, the President at AOA, directs the governance and policy-setting activities of the association. Gerstberger manages the relationship between the Board and the executive leadership, ensuring that the organization pursues its mission with clarity and purpose. By overseeing the development of professional standards, the President maintains the integrity of the optometric field. This leadership role involves representing the association in high-level discussions with healthcare stakeholders and government officials. Matthew Gerstberger drives the strategic agenda that guides the federation toward long-term growth and increased influence. Through the facilitation of board meetings and policy debates, the President ensures that the interests of all members remain at the forefront of decision-making. Gerstberger secures the future of the profession by championing initiatives that enhance the quality of eye care and protect the interests of practitioners nationwide.

Deirdre Middleton, the Chief Communications Officer at AOA, directs all public relations and internal messaging strategies for the association. Middleton manages the brand identity of the profession, ensuring that the value of family eye doctors reaches a broad audience. By overseeing digital outreach and media engagement, the Chief Communications Officer shapes the public perception of optometry as a critical component of healthcare. This leadership role involves crafting narratives that highlight the importance of comprehensive vision care. Deirdre Middleton drives the development of communication channels that connect the federation with its diverse membership base. Through the strategic use of media, the Chief Communications Officer amplifies the voice of the organization in national health discussions. Middleton ensures that all messaging remains consistent with the mission of the association, effectively promoting the expertise of eye care professionals to the public and policymakers.