OAO Staff
The OAO staff team is built around a group of proven leaders in advocacy, research, community building and optometry. The diverse nature of the team ensures that we understand not only the needs of the optometric community but are also able to work as relationship builders between member optometrists and the communities they serve.
Executive Team:
Executive Director - Barbara Wattie Fuller, M.Sc.
Barbara's impeccable record of leadership with OAO has evolved throughout many different roles - from communications, through policy and advocacy - and as Executive Director she has worked in detail with OAO's Board to achieve many key milestone wins. As a past winner of the OAO President's Award, Barbara is also an Honourary Member.
Assistant Executive Director - Melissa Secord
Melissa's dynamic insight into awareness and education initiatives has helped put OAO and optometry squarely in the public eye; marking optometry as a key player in comprehensive health care at all levels of government and education. Melissa is also the key contact for partnership and sponsorship opportunities.
Senior Optometric Policy Team:
Senior Policy Consultant - Dr. Christopher Nicol
Dr. Nicol's storied background in Ontario optometry has been exceptional. A respected advisor at all levels he has served as OAO President, as President of the College of Optometrists of Ontario and is a President's Award winner. He works to define and tailor government and health care policy clearly in the public interest. Dr. Nicol maintains a thriving practice in Bolton.
OAO Team:
Wanda Bishop - Assistant to the Executive Director
Wanda is a first point of contact for OAO's community building initiatives. A long standing team leader she is active in managing member participation and outreach and is the go-to knowledge source for OAO information.
Marie-Claude Degez - Finance Manager
Marie-Claude manages the financial structures that make OAO a force for good in supporting optometrists and patients; deftly building group plans, funding and investment to ensure success and exemplary care.
Sandra Ng - Policy Manager
Sandra's work in policy and political advocacy has helped pave the way for new legislations and regulations. She works closely with grasstops advocacy leads and policy task forces to help build the future of optometry in Ontario.
Christine Morrison - Government Relations Manager
Christine has been highly influential in managing the growth of community-focused groups and awareness campaigns; planning the children's vision initiative and sight testing task forces to ensure the best patient care.
Lindsey Collins - Special Projects Coordinator
Lindsey is responsible for community outreach projects, including the Eye See... Eye Learn program; her extensive experience in educational work and public relations helps build enthusiasm, awareness and participation.
Rose Anne Middleton - Membership and Community Outreach Liaison
Rose Anne is the leading source of guidance and information for OAO members. Thoroughly versed with membership, practice and community initiatives she provides the knowledge that unites the membership.
