Complete Story
07/08/2025
New Perspectives with UOA Executive Director Gwen Cooper
We had the pleasure of speaking with Gwen Cooper, Executive Director of the UOA. In our conversation, she shared valuable insights into the organization’s mission and what drives her passion for advocacy.
Gwen, as you step into this position, how do you envision UOA evolving, especially in its support of state associations, independent opticians, and advocacy for licensed opticians?
As I step into this role, I see UOA becoming the go-to place for all things opticianry — a national hub that brings together state associations, independent opticians, and future professionals under one strong, united voice.
We’re here to back up the people doing the real work on the ground — offering support, sharing tools and ideas, and pushing for policies that reflect what opticians and the patients you serve, need. Our big goals? Agreeing on minimal competencies in education and advocating for licensure in every single state, so standards are strong and consistent across the board. At the end of the day, it’s about growing the profession, supporting each other, and showing the nation how critical and important opticians are.
