NEW YORK—Women’s influence in optical is undeniable, and today more women are playing vital roles at all levels of our industry. In retailing, wholesaling, product design, manufacturing, distribution and vision care, talented women are shaping the direction of the companies and organizations they work for, and, in many cases, lead. This is why Vision Monday will once again be highlighting The Most Influential Women in Optical in our July-August issue, marking the 22nd year of our signature Special Report saluting women in the eyewear/eyecare industry.

We are currently seeking nominations via an electronic survey form. The deadline for submitting nominations is May 23. For this year’s Annual Report, please consider women who are making a difference in the following five categories:

Executive Suite: Candidates are women who hold the positions of president, CEO, CFO, CMO, CIO or COO that guide their companies forward, inspire leadership among their teams and peers and achieve high performance.

Mentors: Candidates are women who are team builders, developers of talent, who via example or education and training successfully influence others to learn and to grow in their business, professions or within their organizations.

Rising Stars: Candidates are women who are “up-and-comers” in their careers and within their companies or arenas within the industry.

Innovators: Candidates are women who have initiated new product developments or special programs in the arena of marketing, technology, retail or patient service/philanthropy, who have spearheaded innovative business enterprises.

Above & Beyond: Candidates are women who have led the way in giving back to the industry, their patients and their communities.

To nominate your choices, go to the survey, where you may select up to a total of two nominees for each category on the electronic nomination form.

Vision Monday is planning a live special event and luncheon for Most Influential Women honorees at Vision Expo West in Las Vegas on Friday, Sept. 20. The special program and networking session is now being planned. VMAIL will announce details as soon as they're available.