VSP Vision Future Leaders Academy

Unleash your potential with leadership training and professional development.

Applications now open for the 2027 cohort!

VSP Vision Future Leaders Academy

Unleash your potential with leadership training and professional development.

Applications now open for the 2027 cohort!

The VSP Vision™ Future Leaders Academy gives emerging doctors of optometry a competitive advantage to elevate their optometric careers.

Group talking

If you’re accepted into this competitive program, you’ll have exclusive access to professional development resources, such as:

  • In-person and virtual education on a range of topics that include leadership development, communication skills, business and financial acumen, and helpful insights into the optometric profession
  • One-on-one mentorship opportunities with established, senior-level optometrists
  • Small group leadership lab discussions
  • Networking events to help you grow your professional network

Along with your clinical expertise, you’ll develop the valuable leadership skills needed to advance your career and establish strong relationships within the optometric industry.

2027 Cohort Applications Now Being Accepted

2027 Program Details

NOTE: The 2026 cohort is currently in session through November 2026.

  • Eligibility: Recent graduates and early-career (first 7 years) optometrists are encouraged to apply. Must be Board-certified or passed Boards.
  • Program Length: March 2027 – November 2027
  • Cost: The program is free for all participants. VSP® will cover all travel costs (e.g., airfare, hotel, and meals) associated with the in-person networking events and training programs.
  • Number of participants: For 2027, VSP will accept 25 participants for the program.
  • Selection criteria: Program participants will be selected for their dedication to optometry and their commitment to be leaders in the profession. They’ll also be selected based on their past or potential leadership involvement. Applicants will participate in an interview with the program team during the selection process.
  • Network requirements: This program is available for ODs within various VSP network and non-network locations, including private practice, retail, corporate, medical, and onsite clinics.

Note: All accepted program participants are required to attend the in-person launch event March 2027, and the in-person graduation closing ceremony November 2027.

Additional questions? Please see Future Leaders Academy FAQs here.

Future Leaders Academy Program Graduates Share Its Impact Both Professionally and Personally

Hear from recent Future Leaders Academy graduates on what impacted them most about the program, from leadership and communications skills to business acumen, networking, and mentorship. ODs featured: Alyssa Vu, Cleveland, OH; Alex Bennett, Los Angeles, CA; Olivia Berger, Berkely, CA; and Breanne McGhee, New Orleans, LA.

"As an introvert, leadership had always felt out of reach—but the program changed that. It transformed how I communicate, boosting my confidence and giving me practical skills I use daily—across patient conversations, workplace dynamics, and even personal relationships." 

Mariam Siddiqi, OD
Big City Optical
VSP Future Leaders Academy class of 2025

2027 Cohort Applications Now Being Accepted through July 31, 2026. For any program questions, please reach out to Brittni Favors, Program Manager.

All fields are required unless noted.

Are you currently a practice owner?
Are you a current member of your State Optometric Association?
Have you previously served, or do you currently serve on a State Optometric Association board?

Do you have any other previous leadership experience? Include any student leadership experience.

How do you envision the Future Leaders Academy contributing to your personal and professional development? What are your long-term career and leadership aspirations and how do you plan to use the network, skills, and knowledge gained from the program to pursue them?

Do you want to be matched with an OD mentor during the program?

What qualities would you value in a mentor, such as mentor’s primary location, years of experience, specialty, preferred work style, and other qualities or attributes?

Please provide one professional reference (name, relationship, email, and contact number).

As a participant, I agree to commit to the following:

  • Monthly online workshops on the 1st Wednesday of every month at either 4:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. PT
  • Online Leadership Labs bi-monthly at either 4:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. PT
  • In-person launch and graduation events in March 2027 and November 2027 [all travel costs (e.g., airfare, hotel, and meals) associated with the in-person networking events and training programs are covered by VSP]
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