About
Optica Governance
The Optica community of scientists, engineers, students and entrepreneurs fuel discoveries and shape real-life applications in the science of light. But that is just part of the story. Our volunteers contribute time and expertise to provide strategic leadership and help build the society.
Councils and Committees
In addition to the Board of Directors, volunteer leaders are selected each year to sit on various councils and committees that provide input on the Society’s strategy, products, and services. The councils and committees are comprised of appointed volunteers who have expertise related to the duties of the council and are committed to donating their time to Optica. It is through the work of the councils and committees that the Society is able to meet its short- and long-term goals.
Governance volunteers are nominated by the President-elect and approved by the Board of Directors. Volunteers generally serve a two or three term and terms follow the calendar year, 01 January to 31 December.
Councils of the Board
The Councils of the Board consist solely of Board members due to the nature of the work and as required under New York law. The Councils of the Board shall be the Awards Council, Executive Council, Finance Council, and the Audit Council. All Councils of the Board report to the Board of Directors.
Councils of the Corporation
The Board of Directors may appoint such other councils as it may from time to time deem necessary to conduct the Society’s affairs. Members of the councils, unless identified by the Bylaws, shall be nominated by the President-Elect and appointed by the Board of Directors. Councils of the Corporation shall serve only in an advisory capacity to the Board of Directors and shall serve at the pleasure of and until discharged by the Board of Directors. Council recommendations must be presented for ratification by the Board.
These councils include: Meetings Council, Membership Engagement & Development Council, Nominating Council, Corporate Engagement Council, Public Policy Council, Publications Council, Strategic Planning Council.
Committees
Optica relies on the dedication of volunteer leaders to oversee a vast portfolio of programs, services and products. The Board of Directors or a council may appoint committees as may be deemed necessary to conduct the Society’s affairs. Members of committees shall be appointed by the council to which the committee reports, and each committee shall contain at least one member of that council. Committees shall serve only in an advisory capacity to its council and shall serve at the pleasure of and until discharged by its reporting council or the Board of Directors. Committee recommendations require council approval before being presented for ratification by the Board.
Optica Committees include: Board of Editors, Board of Meetings, Congressional Fellowship Selection Committee, Investment Committee, Optics & Photonics News Editorial Advisory Committee, Presidential Advisory Committee.
In order to recognize distinguished achievement in optics and photonics, Optica relies on volunteers to serve on its Award and Honors Committees to review nominations and select recipients.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Society is supported by thousands of volunteers who review papers, help organize meetings and conferences, engage with Technical Groups and much more. From small, discrete tasks to long term dedicated roles, there are a variety of ways to be involved with the Society.
Get involved with Optica. Expand your network by exploring these volunteer opportunities.
If you would like more information on how to participate in Optica’s governance activities, please contact OpticaPresident@optica.org. Members are encouraged to include their volunteer interests within their member profile, contact the help center with questions.
