Abigail Markward Appointed Executive Director of the ASOA
Organization slated for continued growth under new leadership
Fairfax, Va. – August 13, 2024 – The American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) is pleased to announce that Abigail Markward, MBA, has been appointed as Executive Director of ASOA, effective immediately. Ms. Markward will continue her role as Executive Director of the ASCRS Foundation, a position she has held since November 2023.
“I am honored to take on this expanded role with ASOA and continue building on the incredible work of both organizations. I look forward to fostering new relationships, enhancing operations, and driving awareness to ensure we meet our long-term vision and goals for ASOA, alongside the ASCRS Foundation,” said Ms. Markward.
Ms. Markward’s extensive career in the ophthalmic industry is marked by her significant contributions in strategic communications, marketing, and nonprofit leadership.
Her dedication to humanitarian causes is notable, highlighted by her participation in a women’s advocacy mission to Nepal with SightLife International. She has also held leadership roles in Ophthalmic World Leaders (OWL), advocating for diversity in ophthalmic leadership.
Prior to the ASCRS Foundation, she served as Vice President of Business Development and Associate Publisher at PentaVision, now Conexiant , leading impactful digital marketing campaigns and live events for numerous ophthalmic clients.
"Ms. Markward’s leadership and extensive experience in both corporate and nonprofit sectors make her an invaluable addition to ASOA. Her proven track record in strategic communications and her dedication to humanitarian causes align perfectly with our mission. We are confident that under her guidance, ASOA will continue to thrive and make significant strides in the field of ophthalmic administration," said Steve Speares, CEO and Executive Director of the American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery.
About ASOA
Founded in 1986, the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) empowers ophthalmic leaders to elevate the business of ophthalmology through education, innovation, support, and collaboration. As a strategic partner of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), ASOA represents approximately 1,000 unique ophthalmic practices across the country, spanning large metropolitan areas to small rural geographies. Serving 1,700+ members, including CEOs, CFOs, administrators, managers, physicians, and clinical directors, ASOA is the premier organization dedicated to managing the business of ophthalmology. Membership in ASOA provides exceptional education, tools, resources, networking, and professional development opportunities.
About ASCRS Foundation
The ASCRS Foundation is driven by a shared vision of a world free from preventable blindness, where individuals can experience life to the fullest. As the nonprofit arm of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), the mission is to educate, provide resources, and empower the ophthalmic community to deliver vital humanitarian eye surgery and care, bridging gaps in access, and transforming lives. Anchored by philanthropic priorities of humanitarian ophthalmic care and surgery, as well as physician education, research, and training efforts, we are committed to making a tangible impact on eye health worldwide.
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Karen Mathes
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