The University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences is proud to announce that Andrew Pouw, MD, has been selected for the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s (AAO) Leadership Development Program (LDP), Class of 2027.

The highly competitive program is designed to identify and cultivate future leaders in ophthalmology, providing participants with advanced training in leadership, advocacy, and professional development. Through a series of sessions held across the country, participants gain experience in areas such as communication, policy, practice management, and organizational leadership, while building connections with peers and established leaders in the field.

Each year, only a small cohort—typically 18 to 20 ophthalmologists—is selected nationwide, making participation a notable professional distinction. 

Dr. Pouw joins a distinguished group of Iowa ophthalmology faculty who have completed the program, including Drs. Keith Carter, Erin Shriver, Elliott Sohn, Mark Greiner, and Alina Dumitrescu. The program has long served as a springboard for emerging leaders within the specialty, helping graduates advance into leadership roles at the state, national, and international levels.

As part of the program, Dr. Pouw will participate in leadership workshops, advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill, and strategic discussions on the future of ophthalmology, while also completing a capstone project designed to benefit the field.

His selection reflects both his accomplishments and his potential to help shape the future of ophthalmology. The department congratulates Dr. Pouw on this achievement and looks forward to his continued contributions as a leader in the field.