Dr. Mark Greiner, a cornea specialist with University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, recently completed participation in the American Academy of Ophthalmology's (AAO) Leadership Development Program XXII. He was part of a select group of twenty physicians comprising the program’s class of 2020.

Physicians are nominated by state, subspecialty and specialized interest societies, and selected by the AAO. The Eye Bank Association of America (EBAA) nominated Dr. Greiner based on his dedication to the eye banking community and service to the ophthalmology specialty, as well as his leadership potential.

The one-year program consisted of a multi-day interactive session covering a range of leadership and association management topics. Participants visited with key leaders of the AAO and met with U.S. congressional representatives and elected officials through several advocacy events throughout the year, either in-person or virtually. During the various activities, participants learn about leadership, advocacy and association governance. Additionally, each participant completes a project in one of ten key areas designed to strengthen the AAO and medical profession.

Greiner shared, "Participating in LDP XXII was an amazing experience! It taught me about elements of leadership that I had never considered; provided a roadmap and guides for successful project creation and execution; and reinforced how important great partners are in any great project. AAO’s partnership with EBAA and other state and specialty-specific organizations is an invaluable resource for building the future of ophthalmology."

Dr. Greiner serves as medical director for the Iowa Lions Eye Bank and past director for the Eye Bank Association of America. He heads the Cornea and External Eye Diseases service and holds the Robert and Joell Brighfelt Professorship of Cornea Research.