President's Message

Dawn D. Williams, O.D.
HOAECC President

The 63rd annual Heart of America Eye Care Congress was a success.  Innovation is one of our tenants and this past was a year of innovations.  With the hotel under renovations, registrations above pre-pandemic levels, nearly 100 vendors, and 140 posters we had to "innovate."  By changing the gala to a cocktail reception, we have been able to add a networking event and incorporate alumni receptions. 

The Heart of America Eye Care Congress was founded on the tenants of progress and the community of optometry.  As we look to the future of this Congress we will continue to innovate to honor the principles we were founded on.  Some things to look forward to at the 64th Annual Conference:

• One of our most exciting innovations is the individualization of our registration and web-based app.  You will be able to access your information after you have registered as well as save it for the next year! This project has been one of my goals since I joined the board.  As you can imagine, it has been no small task.
• We will be adding a camaraderie track to the programming.  This will allow you to see at-a-glance opportunities to interact with your colleagues and vendors.
•  The networking event was beyond our wildest dreams.  We will be expanding the space and program for 2025.  Our goal is to match seeking optometrists with potential practice opportunities.  As optometrists, our greatest accomplishments have been steeped in our traditions of excellence, nurturing the next generation and ensuring our patients continue to receive exceptional care even after our retirements.
• Continuation of the Presidential Cocktail Reception...this allows for more conversation with one another as well as exploring Kansas City with your friends and staff.
• Exhibit Hall prizes:  More prizes spread throughout the weekend.
• Last, but not least, continued extraordinary education!

Join us February 7-9, 2025, for the 64th annual Heart of America Eye Care Congress and see all of the innovations.

Sincerely,
Dawn D. Williams, O.D.
President, Heart of America Eye Care Congress
president@hoaecc.org