12 September 2017

The Optical Society Hosts Special Networking and Member Events During FIO + LS 2017

12 September 2017
 
The Optical Society Hosts Special Networking and Member Events During FIO + LS 2017
 
WASHINGTON — The Optical Society (OSA), the leading professional association in optics and photonics, will host a variety of special events during the 2017 Frontiers in Optics + Laser Science (FIO + LS) conference and exhibit from 17 - 22 September in Washington, DC. The activities include unique networking and professional development programs, a reception with OSA journal editors and special opportunities for OSA members and their families.
 
Highlights include:  
 
Women of Light: A Special Program for Women in Optics: The “Global Women of Light” symposium will focus on women's careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and entrepreneurship with the goal of building build a sustainable community of women in both academia and industry. The event will be led by WiSTEE Connect,  and takes place on Sunday, 17 September at 9:00.
 
Capitol Hill Visits: It is vital for members of Congress to hear directly from their constituents about the importance of scientific research and development funding. OSA will be scheduling meetings for OSA members with Congressional staffers for the purpose of advocating for R&D funding as Congress begins working on the FY 2018 budget. The Hill visits will begin on Monday, 18 September at 9:00.
 
Understanding Unconscious Bias: The workshop will discuss how unconscious bias can result in talented individuals feeling  unwelcome, invisible, and not important to the success of the organization. This session explores explore concepts behind implicit bias and engages  and better understand the impact biases can have on organizational culture. Attendees will also work to identify ways to promote greater engagement with diversity and inclusion. The workshop will be led by Sara Bendoraitis from American University and takes place on Monday, 18 September at 16:00.
 
OSA Evening with the Agencies:  This program features representatives from US and international agencies discussing the latest in science funding and provides attendees an opportunity to network with key program managers. Discussion topics will include the current state of science funding and tips and advice for prospective grantees when applying for funding. The event will happen on Monday, 18 September at 16:00 with a brief reception following the presentation.
 
Meet OSA’s Journal Editors: Come celebrate the anniversaries of Optics Letters and Optics Express at the OSA Publishing lunchtime reception in the Exhibit Hall. Enjoy complimentary pizza, cake and refreshments while conversing with OSA Publishing’s Editors-in-Chief, Deputy Editors and Associate Editors. Learn about submitting manuscripts, discuss ideas for Feature Issues or ask other journal related questions on Tuesday, 19 September in the Science Showcase Theater.
 
OSA Members, Family and Friends Tour: On Wednesday, 20 September, friends and family of OSA members can go on a behind the scenes tour of the National Gallery of Art East Building. The tour will be led by expert docents who will highlight conservation techniques of works on and off display. Shuttle transportation will pick up at the Hilton’s front entrance at 09:30 and will return from the tour at 12:00.
 
Congressional Fellowship Program Information Session: The Congressional Science Policy Fellowships provide a unique opportunity for PhD scientists and engineers to spend one year working for a  member of Congress or a Congressional committee learning about the policy making process Attendees will hear from a past Congressional Fellow and can ask questions regarding the Fellowship process. The program takes place on Wednesday, 20 September.
 
OIDA VIP Industry Leaders Speed Meetings Lunch: This session brings together industry executives to share their business experience with early career professionals, recent graduates and students. Attendees can learn how industry leaders started their careers, the lessons they’ve learned and how they use their degrees in executive positions. Informal networking over lunch is followed by a transition to “speed meetings,” which are brief, small-group visits with each executive to discuss industry trends or career topics. The lunch takes place on Wednesday, 20 September at 12:00.
 
The Optical Society Booth and Lounge: Stop by the OSA booth to meet staff, and learn more about our history, publications, conferences and meetings. In addition, you can visit the OSA Lounge to take advantage of special renewal and new membership discounts. The booth and lounge will be in the concourse area and is open each day of the conference.
 
Media Registration
A media room for credentialed media and analysts will be located on-site. Media interested in attending events should register on the FiO + LS website: Media Center.
 
About FiO + LS
Frontiers in Optics is The Optical Society’s (OSA) Annual Meeting and held together with Laser Science, a meeting sponsored by the American Physical Society’s Division of Laser Science (DLS). The two meetings unite the OSA and APS communities for five days of quality, cutting-edge presentations, in-demand invited speakers and a variety of special events spanning a broad range of topics in optics and photonics—the science of light—across the disciplines of physics, biology and chemistry. The exhibit floor will feature leading optics companies, technology products and programs. More information at:
 
About The Optical Society
Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) is the leading professional organization for scientists, engineers, students and business leaders who fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate achievements in the science of light. Through world-renowned publications, meetings and membership initiatives, OSA provides quality research, inspired interactions and dedicated resources for its extensive global network of optics and photonics experts. For more information, visit osa.org/100.
 
Media Contacts:
mediarelations@osa.org