Golden Opportunity Award

David Golden, O.D. co-founder of the Professional Eyecare Resource Co-Operative Alliance (PERC) and EssilorLuxottica employee, passed away after a long-fought battle with cancer in September 2021.

Throughout his life, Dr. Golden was passionate about elevating those around him, helping others climb the ladder of success. Through his co-founding of PERC, he assisted thousands of small business owners by leveling the playing field and teaching them how to grow their businesses.

In that spirit, The Golden Opportunity Award was created, a collaborative effort between The AOA Foundation and PERC Alliance. The Golden Opportunity Award is presented to applicants who wish to achieve the dream of owning their first independent practice. In this way, Dr. Golden’s uplifting legacy lives on.

Golden Opportunity Awards of $50,000 each will be awarded annually to as many as three deserving optometrists to create the financial foundation of an independent practice. Emphasis is placed on recognizing and awarding individuals from an underrepresented group within the optometric community or someone who seeks to build a practice in an underserved area or population of need.

Winners will be announced at Optometry’s Meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota, June 25-28, 2025, coinciding with Dr. Golden’s birthday.

Application Overview

The committee responsible for evaluating the Golden Opportunity Award is committed to a thorough and equitable assessment process that considers a diverse range of factors. Application questions have been crafted to gather comprehensive insights into applicants' personal achievements, challenges and future goals. Financial questions are designed to understand the unique financial context of each applicant, enabling the committee to make informed decisions that align with the programs goal of providing golden opportunities to those who will benefit most.

Golden Opportunity Award Application

Application Timeline

October 16, 2024 - Applications Open

Deadline extended! Applications will be accepted through
Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025.

April 2025–Finalists selected

May 2025 – Finalists present to the awards committee in person or virtual

June 2025 – Awards announced at Optometry’s Meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota