• From a young age...
• I’ve been drawn to leadership, collaboration, and advocacy—maybe that’s the middle child in me, always findings common ground between two brothers! I thrive on bringing people together, building consensus, overcoming adversity, and turning ideas into action. Growing up across Michigan, Texas, Tennessee, and Kentucky gave me a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives, a relentless can-do attitude, and an unwavering passion for service.
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• After completing an optometry residency at the Bond-Wroten Eye Clinics in Louisiana, I proudly made the Bayou State home over the past decade—grateful for the hard-fought scope expansion led by the Optometry Association of Louisiana in 2014. That victory shaped my career from day one, allowing me to practice contemporary optometry to the fullest and solidifying my dedication to advocacy. Paying it forward, in 2020, I launched and began leading an accredited, surgery-focused Ocular Disease residency program, training the next generation of ODs to practice to the fullest scope and elevate our profession back in their home states. I am a proud Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry, a Sustaining Member of the American Society of Optometric Surgeons, and an Adjunct Professor of the Southern College of Optometry.
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• Now, as I take this next step in my leadership journey, with the endorsement of the Southern Caucus at SECO 2025, I’m ready to serve on the AOA Board of Trustees and bring the same passion, experience, and energy that has defined my career to this national role. Together, we’ll protect our profession, grow our impact, and unite generations of optometric leaders.
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• Optometry’s best days are ahead—and I’m ready to help shape that future. Let’s continue to move forward together!
• Carpe Diem,
• Amy
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Optometry Association of Louisiana

Having served many years on the Optometry Association of Louisiana’s Executive Committee, I worked to elevate our state association by successfully testifying before legislators during contentious hearings, helping rebuild our grassroots advocacy network, and playing a key role in developing Louisiana’s first OAL Leadership Institute to foster emerging leaders in optometric advocacy. As OAL President and beyond, I have collaborated with some of the most respected figures in optometry to protect Louisiana’s expansive scope and autonomy, supported member engagement, outmaneuvered disruptors, built relationships with diverse audiences, modernized organizational technology and policies, and brought together new ODs and seasoned advocates—ensuring our profession remains strong for future generations.

Early Years

Immediately following high school graduation, where I was valedictorian, my interests in government and politics led me to Washington, D.C., as a legislative intern for Congressman Hal Rogers (R-KY). There I saw firsthand how policy, grassroots efforts, and coalition-building drive meaningful change. I earned dual degrees in Political Science and Communications from Bellarmine University in Louisville, KY, where I served as the first two-term student government president and student liaison to the Board of Trustees.

Optometry School

At Southern College of Optometry, I continued my leadership journey as class president for four years, AOSA Trustee and student delegate to the House of Delegates at Optometry’s Meeting, and Gold Key International Leadership Honor Society president. Committed to advocacy efforts, I not only attended the AOA Advocacy Conference (AOA on Capitol Hill) each year, but also organized travel for classmates to attend and established grants to support their participation.

The AOA

Serving three years on the dynamic Industry Relations Committee gave me a national perspective not only of the interconnected and necessary work of the AOA volunteer structure, but the various industries that support our profession. I gained a deeper understanding of the vital partnership between optometry and our industry partners—ensuring alignment in advocacy, education, and ophthalmic innovation.

Most recently, I have served on the Leadership Development Committee, which oversees the AOA Leadership Institute 1.0 and 2.0 programs, which has become a proven training ground designed to equip and inspire the next generation of optometric advocates.

Advocacy &

Legislative Success

Optometry needs articulate, strategic leaders who can champion our profession with clarity and conviction. I have the experience and passion to advocate effectively—testifying before lawmakers, lobbying for our profession, and rallying our membership. My ability to communicate and connect with broad audiences, has been key to driving legislative wins and collaboration at the state level. With this fresh perspective and a deep understanding of the power of words, I am ready to bring my voice to the national level serving on the AOA Board of Trustees.

Building Leaders & Membership

To keep optometry strong, we must develop and support the next generation of leaders while respecting the history, hard work, and lessons learned by past advocates before us. I believe in mentorship, leadership development, and fostering a culture where every student and OD feels empowered to step up and contribute to the progress of our profession.

• A Unified Profession

Optometry is strongest when we work together. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate, a recent graduate, or a student—our voices matter. Through integrity and hard work, I will be a Trustee for all, and I will work to ensure every AOA member feels heard and valued.

Nonprofit Regulations &

Board Compliance

I have essential leadership experience serving on nonprofit boards, including two years as President of a Junior League where I gained extensive experience in nonprofit governance and executive leadership, fiscal responsibility, risk management, and mission-driven programming. The AOA needs board leadership who also understand the intricacies of nonprofit regulatory law at state and federal levels to ensure the sustainability and oversight of our organization.

I want to hear from you!

Be on the lookout for an email to schedule your state association’s introductory meeting with Dr. Amy. A detailed CV will be provided to all AOA affiliates and members.

Let’s Connect

https://www.facebook.com/dr.amy.puerto

www.linkedin.com/in/dramypuerto

Mark Your Calendars!

Delegates of AOA affiliates will vote for (3) open positions for the 2025 AOA Board of Trustees at the House of Delegates at Optometry’s Meeting in Minneapolis, MN!

Wednesday - Saturday, June 25-28