Liz Rogan has served as Optica's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) since 2002. Her tenure is anchored by nearly 30 years of strategic, management, and operational leadership roles, including serving as Chief Operating Officer (COO) for five years.

As CEO, Liz sets the Society's growth strategy and direction and oversees a US$50M annual budget. She's responsible for modeling and setting the organization's culture and values. Optica and the Optica Foundation's investment reserves are US$150M+, employ 170 staff members, and have a customer base of 570K+ professionals. Liz has grown Optica's global presence, expanded corporate and individual membership, and expanded its publishing and event programs, public affairs, outreach, and more.

As the representative and advocate of the Society, Liz embodies Optica and its Board's mission to honor the endeavors of technical and scientific pioneers. Guided by her leadership, Optica collaborates with professionals to apply and advance optic and photonic technologies to meet global demands. Liz and her team are committed to serving members, volunteers, and the worldwide community engaged in the invention and innovation of light-based technologies poised to solve global challenges and improve our lives. 

In 2019, Liz earned the distinction of Optica Fellow, a recognition of her tenure at Optica and industry-wide leadership in optics and photonics. Her leadership has enhanced diversity, inclusivity, and member participation within the community.

Liz joined the first class of Foreign Fellows of the Chinese Optical Society in 2018. This distinction, bestowed upon individuals with significant contributions to the advancement of optics and photonics, remains one of Liz's most treasured professional acknowledgments.

In 2023, Liz earned the distinction of SPIE Fellow for achievements in leadership of the global optics and photonics community, expanding activities, and advocating to government and industry.

A certified public accountant, Liz earned her B.A. from the University of Connecticut, U.S., and is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business Executive Education programs.

Contact the Office of the CEO: ceo@optica.org; +1 202.416.1467