This year’s honorees are shaping the future of eyecare through innovation, inclusion, and impact.

CARY, NC — October 20, 2025 — Ophthalmic World Leaders (OWL), the nonprofit advancing diverse leadership to drive ophthalmic innovation and patient care, announced its 2025 Leadership Award honorees, leaders who are shaping the future of eyecare through innovation, inclusion, and impact. The awards celebrate individuals whose vision and results elevate the eyecare industry.

The 2025 OWL Award recipients:

Rising Star Award - Cherie Fathy, MD, MPH (Director of Clinical Research for Ophthalmology, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals) OWL’s Rising Star Award honors an individual who is an emerging leader in the ophthalmic space.

Catalyst Award - Leo E. Otero, MBA (Senior Director of Market Development & Global Advisory Boards, U.S. Surgical Marketing, Alcon) OWL’s Catalyst Award honors an individual who has contributed significantly to helping others advance their career in eye care.

Visionary Leader Award - Cathleen McCabe, MD (Chief Medical Officer, Eye Health America) OWL’s Visionary Leader Award honors an individual who has paved the way for diversity in their field through significant achievement.

These honorees were selected by the OWL membership for their extraordinary leadership, ability to make an impact and commitment to advancing the eye care community.

Pictured: Cherie Fathy, MD and Cathleen McCabe, MD. Absent: Leo Otero.

Photo Credit: Pam Katz Photography

Nivine Woods, OWL President, shared “Each of this year’s honorees exemplifies the spirit of OWL — leaders who are not only advancing ophthalmic innovation but also lifting others as they advance. Cherie, Leo, and Cathy inspire us all through their dedication, mentorship, and commitment to collaboration across the eye care community.”

Awards were presented at the OWL Signature Event during the American Academy of Ophthalmology (“AAO”) in Orlando on October 19, 2025. 

About Ophthalmic World Leaders (OWL)

Founded in 2003, OWL is the preeminent nonprofit organization promoting and developing diverse leadership to advance ophthalmic innovation and patient care. OWL provides professional and personal development and creates opportunities for collaboration across the entire ophthalmic industry. Learn more at www.owlsite.org.