AOSA names Robert Foster executive director

St. Louis-The American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) has named Robert Foster as executive director. Foster brings to the AOSA more than 2 decades of experience serving optometry and a background in not-for-profit management and consulting. Most recently, Foster served the American Optometric Association (AOA) as associate director of publishing/social media.

“I have long admired the AOSA’s record of advocacy success and membership engagement. AOSA’s leadership has built an enviable track record, and I look forward to building on this success with student leaders,” Foster said.

“Bob’s knowledge of the profession will be a valuable asset to AOSA and broaden our existing collaborations for the good of the optometric profession,” said Barry J. Barresi, OD, PhD, executive director of the AOA and chief executive officer of AOAExcel.

Foster’s involvement with optometry began in 1992 when he started at the AOA as editor of AOA News, following 2 years at St. Louis-based public relations firm Fleishman-Hillard, and 6 years at McDonnell Aircraft Company.