Following the keynote by Ellen Steinlein on Asking for What You Want, three women optometrists will share how they have learned to unleash their leadership.
At the Women In Optometry Women’s Leadership Conference, each will briefly share how she has leveraged her leadership skills for greater impact.
Mila Ioussifova, OD, CNS, FAAO, FOWNS; Essence Johnson, OD, FAAO, Dipl ABO; and Jade Coats, OD, will share how they have leveraged their leadership skills for greater impact.
Dr. Mila Ioussifova
A graduate of New England College of Optometry, Dr. Ioussifova returned to Portland, Oregon, and opened South Waterfront Eye Care. In the past six years, she has developed a special interest in ocular nutrition, and she makes prevention a major focus of her practice. She is passionate about treating dry eye disease while incorporating nutritional and lifestyle changes.
At the Women’s Leadership Conference, Dr. Ioussifova will speak about stepping outside of her comfort zone for personal and professional growth. She says, “Leadership begins when you step outside your comfort zone—where growth, innovation, and lasting impact are born. By embracing challenges, leading with courage, and guiding with integrity, you inspire and empower others to stretch their boundaries, unlock their full potential, and reach new heights.”
Dr. Essence Johnson
A graduate of Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University is a champion for diversity, equity and inclusion. Dr. Johnson is passionate about advancing health care through innovation, diversity, equity and inclusion, community awareness and student and corporate engagement.
She is the Executive Director of Black EyeCare Perspective and co-advisor to the Black EyeCare Perspective Pre-Optometry Club, where they are redefining the eye care industry 1% at a time by creating a pipeline for Black students into optometry. Dr. Johnson is also making a difference in the career paths of scholars and alumni as the Director of Healthcare Careers at Uplift Education.
She says, “Unleashing your leadership means not just inspiring others to follow you but also creating a path they can walk to continue making a lasting impact.”
Dr. Jade Coats
Dr. Coats, a graduate of Southern College of Optometry, works in an OD/MD practice and dedicates the majority of her clinical practice to comprehensive eye care, ocular disease, perioperative care, and contact lenses with a special interest in the ocular surface and dry eye disease. She has published articles in numerous professional and practice management publications and has served as a speaker and/or advisory board member for companies.
Dr. Coats is an active board member of the Intrepid Eye Society and YoungODConnect, in addition to a member of the American Optometric Association and the Arkansas Optometric Association. She also represents Arkansas as a 2023 and 2024 Visionary of the Contact Lens Institute.
Dr. Coats says, “Leadership is not about titles or positions, but about having the confidence to stand up and lead with your heart. When you discover your own strengths and embrace your unique qualities, you unlock the potential to inspire and lead others.”
Be a part of this vibrant, supportive community that champions women’s leadership in optometry. Share experiences, celebrate leadership and find encouragement to unleash your inner leader.
Join us for this exciting event and kick-off your AAO Indianapolis visit.
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