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 high-level relationships with state and armed forces partners to ensure the profession maintains a unified voice in national healthcare policy. By aligning organizational goals with the evolving needs of eye care providers, the Chief Executive Officer drives long-term growth and professional advocacy. Albert Agboola oversees the implementation of initiatives that support the mission of providing comprehensive vision care to the public. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine operational standards and expand the influence of the association. Through rigorous oversight of national programs, the Chief Executive Officer secures the stability of the organization while fostering innovation in clinical practice standards across the entire country.

Rebecca Hildebrand, the Chief Operating Officer at AOA, manages the internal infrastructure and daily business functions required to support the federation. Hildebrand optimizes administrative workflows to ensure that state and student associations receive consistent, high-quality resources. By streamlining operational processes, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the efficiency of the organization and supports the delivery of essential member services. Rebecca Hildebrand coordinates with department heads to execute projects that improve the internal capacity of the association. This role requires precise management of organizational assets and the implementation of scalable systems that facilitate growth. Through the diligent application of operational best practices, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the functional integrity of the association, ensuring that all internal teams remain aligned with the broader mission of supporting America's family eye doctors.

Brian Moore, the President, Local Society (Mid-State) at AOA, drives regional engagement and professional development initiatives within the mid-state territory. Moore facilitates local networking opportunities and educational programs that connect practitioners with the broader resources of the national federation. By fostering a collaborative environment, the President, Local Society (Mid-State) ensures that regional members remain informed about current clinical standards and advocacy efforts. Brian Moore coordinates with local boards to address specific regional challenges and promote the growth of the optometric community. This role involves translating national strategic goals into actionable local programs that benefit individual eye doctors. Through active leadership in the mid-state area, the President, Local Society (Mid-State) strengthens the grassroots foundation of the association and promotes excellence in patient care at the community level.

Matthew Gerstberger, the President at AOA, provides governance and leadership for the federation, guiding the organization toward its primary mission of advancing the profession of optometry. Gerstberger presides over board meetings and ensures that the association adheres to its core values while navigating complex healthcare landscapes. By representing the interests of the membership, the President drives policy decisions that impact the future of eye and vision care. Matthew Gerstberger collaborates with other executive leaders to align organizational priorities with the needs of the diverse membership base. This role involves setting the tone for professional conduct and advocating for the rights of optometrists at the highest levels. Through consistent leadership, the President maintains the focus of the association on delivering high-quality vision care and supporting the professional development of all members.

Beth Thompson, the Auxiliary President at AOA, leads the support network dedicated to enhancing the outreach and community impact of the optometric profession. Thompson coordinates volunteer efforts and public awareness programs that complement the clinical work of eye doctors. By organizing auxiliary activities, the Auxiliary President expands the reach of the association into broader community health initiatives. Beth Thompson works closely with the leadership team to ensure that auxiliary projects align with the overarching goals of the federation. This role involves mobilizing resources and volunteers to support the mission of promoting eye health education. Through the dedicated efforts of the Auxiliary President, the association strengthens its connection to the public and fosters a culture of service that supports the professional objectives of the entire optometric community.

Deirdre Middleton, the Chief Communications Officer at AOA, architects the public relations and messaging strategy for the entire optometric profession. Middleton directs all external outreach efforts to ensure that the value of comprehensive eye care remains prominent in the national conversation. By crafting targeted campaigns, the Chief Communications Officer elevates the visibility of the association among both practitioners and the general public. Deirdre Middleton manages the dissemination of critical information regarding vision health standards and legislative updates. This leadership position involves coordinating with media partners and internal stakeholders to maintain a consistent brand identity. Through the strategic deployment of communication channels, the Chief Communications Officer strengthens the reputation of the association and ensures that the professional interests of optometrists receive appropriate attention across all regional and national platforms.