VSP Vision Future Leaders Academy

Unleash your potential with leadership training and professional development.

VSP Vision Future Leaders Academy

Unleash your potential with leadership training and professional development.

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

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.
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

“I just graduated from VSP’s Future Leaders Academy, a nine-month program for early-stage optometrists who want to grow as leaders. It’s been transformative—covering everything from staffing and practice economics to advocacy and EHR systems—while pairing me with a mentor who provides clarity and confidence in navigating ownership.”

Kha Duong, OD
Melbourne Eye, Melbourne, FL
VSP Future Leaders Academy class of 2026

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

All fields are required unless noted.

Name

Phone

Address

City

State

Zip Code

Gender (optional)

Race (optional)

Optometry school

Graduation Year

Current employer

Title/position

Work location

Current practice modality (private practice, retail, academia/research, hospital, military, other) 

Are you currently a practice owner?

Yes No

Are you a current member of your State Optometric Association?

Yes No

Have you previously served, or do you currently serve on a State Optometric Association board?

Yes No

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?

(500-word limit)

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

Yes No

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 enter potential mentor attributes)

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

How did you hear about the Future Leaders Academy?

SUBMIT