Ambassadors
Foundation
Ambassadors
Be a leader for the next generation.
Program Prize
A lifetime designation, registration and travel support to select conferences and partnership with the Optica Foundation for Ambassador-driven initiatives.
Donate NowFoundation
As emerging leaders in the optics and photonics community, Ambassadors provide career advice, technical knowledge and mentorship with students and early career professionals in the field by supporting professional development events at meetings and engaging with their communities.
All program participants receive a lifetime Ambassador distinction visible in the member directory for their continuing efforts to serve the greater optics and photonics community.
Once selected, an ambassador begins a year of service. The following benefits are available during this period:
- Full registration and accomodation for the Level Up and Optica's annual meeting Frontiers in Optics + Laser Science.
- A stipend to spend on Ambassador-organized initiatives approved through the application process.
- Recognition in Optica publications.
Application Information
How To Apply
Apply at apply.optica.org.
Applicant Requirements
Be a current early career or an individual member who has received a terminal degree within the last five - seven years or will receive a terminal degree by the application deadline.
Program requirements recognize and exclude career breaks from career timelines (e.g., eldercare, maternity or paternity leave).
Application Requirements
- List of questions such as:
- Describe any volunteer experience within the Society.
- Describe any volunteer experience with other societies outside of the Society.
- How has the Society influenced your career?
- Why do you want to serve as an Ambassador?
- What do you hope to accomplish your first year?
- CV/ resume
- Two references
2025 Recipients
Connect with this year's ambassadors for advice, networking or even just to say hello.
Past Recipients
Contributors
The ambassador program is funded through the Optica Foundation Annual Fund.
About the Endowment
The Optica Foundation Annual Fund supports the ambassador program, IONS conferences, student chapter grants, public policy trainings and other various initiatives on a yearly basis.
Selection Committee
Ambassadors are selected by the previous classes.
