Application period opens for 2026 Golden Opportunity Award to support emerging optometrists

The AOA Foundation — Optometry Cares® and PERC Alliance announces the third annual Golden Opportunity Award, an initiative honoring the legacy of Dr. David Golden by providing substantial support to emerging doctors of optometry. From October 17, 2025, through January 15, 2026, applications are open for this distinguished award, which will empower up to 3 optometrists with $50,000 each toward launching their first independent practice.

The Golden Opportunity Award recognizes next-generation practice owners who reflect Dr. Golden’s commitment to excellence, entrepreneurship, and service. Priority consideration is given to applicants from underrepresented groups in optometry and those establishing practices in underserved communities, advancing a more diverse and equitable future for eye care.

“We’re proud to continue the Golden Opportunity Award with Optometry Cares and the Golden family,” said Jason Lake, OD general manager of PERC Alliance. “This award not only honors Dr. Golden’s legacy, it removes barriers for optometrists who are ready to build thriving independent practices and expand access to care.”

Celebrating 2025 awardees

The second annual Golden Opportunity Award honored 2 outstanding recipients whose vision for patient care and community impact stood out:

• Danielle Richardson, OD (West Hollywood, California) — recognized for her commitment to holistic, accessible eye care and innovative practice development.
• Kayla Campbell, OD (Vienna, West Virginia) — recognized for advancing comprehensive vision services and strengthening access to care across her community.

These emerging leaders exemplify the Award’s aim: to promote independent practice ownership that elevates patient outcomes and expands care where it’s needed most.

How to apply

Applications for the 2026 Golden Opportunity Award are now open and due by January 15, 2026. Eligibility, requirements, and submission details are available at:
https://www.percalliance.com/Programs/Golden-Opportunity

Established in 2008 by a group of optometrists, PERC is a collective purchasing organization committed to helping optometric practices achieve savings and boost profitability. With over 7500 practices in its network, they leverage collective bargaining power to secure exclusive discounts on essential products and services.

The AOA Foundation — Optometry Cares® is a 501(c)(3) organization working to empower the optometric profession in providing awareness and access to health and vision care for the public. To learn more, please visit aoafoundation.org. 

The American Optometric Association (AOA) represents more than 50,000 doctors of optometry, students and professionals who provide the majority of eye health and vision care in over 10,000 U.S. communities. As the leading voice for quality eye care, the AOA advances the profession through cutting-edge education, practice-changing resources, singular advocacy, and public education about the profession, ensuring patients nationwide have trusted access to essential, in-person eye health and vision care with member doctors of optometry.