OAL Develops New Young Leadership Institute with Support from VSP Vision

The Optometry Association of Louisiana (OAL) launched its OAL Leadership Institute, a nine-month leadership development program that serves as a potential path to the OAL board for young leaders that teaches them about advocacy and how to meet with legislators. Beyond advocacy training, the program equips emerging ODs with public speaking skills, tips for running and planning effective meetings, and other practice management essentials, preparing them to confidently meet with legislators, effectively communicate with patients, staff, and colleagues, and run their clinics.

When asked about her experience in the OAL Young Leadership Institute, Dr. Jennifer Tate-Brasseaux, 2025 OAL Leadership Institute graduate and current OAL board member, stated, “Once my private practice was well established, I felt it was time to contribute more broadly to the profession. I wanted my voice to be part of the legislative conversation—especially on issues affecting private practice ODs and business owners. The OAL Leadership Institute was the perfect platform to connect with local legislators and learn how to engage with them effectively. After graduating earlier this year, I joined the Optometry Association of Louisiana Board of Directors, where I’m honored to represent my colleagues and help shape the future of our profession.”

VSP Vision™ supported the program through annual sponsorship funds for the OAL to use for leadership development efforts that advance the profession.* To celebrate the OAL Leadership Institute’s 2025 graduates and welcome the incoming class, the OAL and VSP^® co-hosted a dinner for them at the 2025 OAL Annual Convention in Baton Rouge on June 6.

To date, VSP Vision has provided $6 million in sponsorships to support State Optometric Associations. To learn more about how VSP is partnering with private practice doctors to make an impact on the profession, visit vspproviderhub.com/impact. 

*Acceptance of sponsorship money by the OAL does not constitute an endorsement of a sponsor's services, products, or offerings of any kind.