Wide view of the packed meeting room
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CommunitySeptember 22, 2026

TDOA Ends the Year on a High Note with Record-Breaking Attendance!

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What a fantastic way to close out the year!

The TDOA held its final chapter meeting of the year on Sunday, September 20, and we were thrilled to welcome a record-breaking 153 attendees! The outstanding turnout made for a full house, a great atmosphere, and an exciting finish to another year of TDOA education and fellowship.

Our featured speaker, Sam Winnegrad, led all eight hours of continuing education—and brought the energy to match! Sam kept everyone engaged throughout the day with valuable educational information, light humor, and an enthusiastic presentation style that helped make eight hours of education fly by.

We were also pleased to welcome Theo Morrison, TDOA’s lobbyist, who shared an important update about the work being done on behalf of Tennessee’s licensed dispensing opticians. Theo discussed the role TDOA plays in helping ensure that Tennessee continues to recognize licensed opticians and the importance of our profession.

He also reminded members how important it is to support the TDOA PAC Fund. Contributions to the PAC help support TDOA’s advocacy efforts and give our profession a stronger voice on issues that can affect opticians throughout Tennessee. Members can contribute by mail, in person at TDOA meetings, or conveniently through our website.

It Takes a Team!

A meeting of this size doesn’t happen without a lot of people working together behind the scenes.

A very special thank-you goes to Felda Stacey’s sister, who generously donated snacks for everyone to enjoy during the meeting. We also want to thank our three vendors who joined us and set up tables. Your continued participation and support are greatly appreciated!

We also want to recognize Melissa, Gloria, Lerhonda, Ashley, Kathy, and all of the members and volunteers who pitched in throughout the day. Whether helping with preparations, registration, organization, or the countless little things that keep a meeting running smoothly, your efforts helped make the day a success.

153 Attendees — What a Finish!

Reaching a record attendance of 153 people at our final meeting of the year is something worth celebrating. It reflects the strength of Tennessee’s optician community and the continued support and participation of our TDOA members.

Thank you to Sam Winnegrad, Theo Morrison, our vendors, volunteers, members, and everyone who attended for helping us finish the year on such a positive note.

Enjoy the photos from our September meeting below!

We hope they capture some of the energy and fellowship from the day, and we look forward to seeing everyone again next year!