The future of optics and photonics just gained new leadership- Optica, the premier professional society for light science, has revealed its incoming Board of Directors for the 2026 term. Alexander Gaeta of Columbia University will serve as Vice President, elected directly by Optica’s global membership, while Thomas Brown, Kaoru Minoshima, and Marisa Edmund will join as Directors at Large. These appointments are crucial, as the Board guides Optica’s strategic direction- shaping the advancement of knowledge, fostering innovation, and supporting the worldwide optics community during a period of rapid technological development.
Optica Leadership & Governance
Optica’s leadership structure emphasizes both experienced guidance and fresh perspectives, crucial for navigating the rapidly evolving field of photonics. The appointment of Alexander Gaeta as Vice President highlights a commitment to continuity, given his nearly four decades of research and extensive volunteer history with the society – including a prior term on the Board and current role chairing the Strategic Planning Council. Optica CEO Elizabeth Nolan underscored Gaeta’s ability to bridge academia and industry, a vital asset given the increasing commercialization of optics and photonics. Joining him as Directors at Large, Thomas Brown and Kaoru Minoshima bring further depth of experience; Brown as Professor of Optics at the University of Rochester and a long-time contributor to Optics Express, and Minoshima as Professor and Vice-President at the University of Electro-Communications, Japan. This blend of leadership – Gaeta’s established vision alongside the specialized expertise of Brown and Minoshima – suggests a governance approach focused on both strategic foresight and practical implementation. The Society’s commitment to volunteerism is also evident, with each new board member possessing a significant history of partnership with Optica, ensuring a dedicated and informed direction for the organization.
Exploring Optica Resources
Beyond its leadership appointments, Optica offers a wealth of resources for those seeking to engage with the broader light science community and advance their knowledge. The organization actively fosters collaboration through various channels, including its highly-regarded publishing portfolio – notably journals like Optica and Optics Express – which disseminate cutting-edge research to a global audience. Optica also serves as a central hub for networking and professional development, hosting flagship conferences such as CLEO and Frontiers in Optics + Laser Science, events that draw experts from both academia and industry. These gatherings aren’t merely for established professionals; Optica demonstrates a commitment to cultivating the next generation through initiatives like student travel grants and dedicated programming at its events. Furthermore, the Society maintains a robust online presence, providing access to a comprehensive library of resources – including webinars, blogs, and a detailed “What is Optics?” section – designed to educate and inspire. Optica’s dedication extends to supporting emerging economies through registration waivers for events, and offers diverse volunteer opportunities, solidifying its role as a truly inclusive and globally-focused organization.
News and Announcements
Optica’s recent leadership announcements signal a continued emphasis on bridging academic research with burgeoning commercial applications within the photonics industry. Beyond the appointments of Alexander Gaeta as Vice President and Directors at Large Thomas Brown, Kaoru Minoshima, and Marisa Edmund, the selection process itself underscores the Society’s reliance on established volunteer networks. Each incoming board member boasts a significant history of partnership with Optica – from Gaeta’s prior board service and role as founding Editor-in-Chief of Optica journal, to Brown’s contributions to Optics Express and Minoshima’s leadership at the University of Electro-Communications, Japan. This dedication to recognizing long-term commitment suggests a strategic approach to governance, ensuring continuity and informed decision-making. Notably, Marisa Edmund of Edmund Optics represents a direct link to the industry side of photonics, a sector Optica CEO Elizabeth Nolan identifies as experiencing “remarkable expansion.” The appointments, finalized in late October 2025, are poised to guide Optica’s strategic direction throughout the 2026-2028 term, navigating a landscape where both foundational research and practical implementation are paramount.
