Abigail Markward Named Executive Director of ASOA

The American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) has announced the appointment of Abigail Markward, MBA, as its new executive director, effective immediately. In addition to this new role, Ms. Markward will continue her responsibilities as executive director of the ASCRS Foundation, a position she has held since November 2023.

"I am honored to take on this expanded role with ASOA and continue building on the incredible work of both organizations," Ms. Markward said in an ASOA news release. "I look forward to fostering new relationships, enhancing operations, and driving awareness to ensure we meet our long-term vision and goals for ASOA, alongside the ASCRS Foundation."

With an extensive career in the ophthalmic industry, Ms. Markward brings several years of experience in strategic communications, marketing, and nonprofit leadership to her new role. She has been involved in humanitarian causes, inlcuding a women’s advocacy mission to Nepal with SightLife International. She has also been an active leader in Ophthalmic World Leaders (OWL), where she has been an advocate for diversity in ophthalmic leadership. Before joining the ASCRS Foundation, Ms. Markward served as Vice President of Business Development and Associate Publisher at PentaVision, now Conexiant.

"Ms. Markward’s leadership and extensive experience in both corporate and nonprofit sectors make her an invaluable addition to ASOA," said Steve Speares, CEO and Executive Director of the American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). "Her proven track record in strategic communications and her dedication to humanitarian causes align perfectly with our mission. We are confident that under her guidance, ASOA will continue to thrive and make significant strides in the field of ophthalmic administration."