Emerging Optical Leaders (EOL) Retreat

- (8 - 7pm EDT)

M Resort Spa Casino in Las Vegas (Henderson), Nevada

The EOL Retreat is a unique and dynamic opportunity for professional development alongside industry peers. You will not want to miss this chance to build connections, learn from impactful guest speakers, and strengthen your knowledge of the vision community.

Space is limited, so secure your spot today!

Jump to Registration Below

If you are interested in attending the retreat but are not yet part of our EOL Committee, you can learn more about the group and the nomination process here

Cost to Attend

  • Registration - $250

Accommodations 

The Vision Council is excited to host the 2026 EOL Retreat at the M Resort Spa Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Special room rates have been negotiated. 
To book your reservation, please click here or call 877-673-7678. Use code STVC26 to qualify for our exclusive group rate.

A nightly resort fee of $39.99 (inclusive of tax) applies and includes the following amenities:

  • Complimentary wireless internet access in guest rooms
  • Complimentary access to Spa Mio Fitness Center
  • Complimentary local and 800 phone calls
  • Complimentary self-parking and valet parking
  • Complimentary shuttle service to and from Harry Reid International Airport 
  • Complimentary access to Digital PressReader, featuring thousands of newspapers and magazines worldwide

Please note: Room reservations must be booked by August 19 to qualify for the group rate. Reservations made after the cutoff will be based on availability at then current rates.

Retreat Schedule

From programming at the luxurious M Resort Spa Casino to networking at beautiful Red Rock Canyon, we know you will leave this event equipped, refreshed, and inspired for the future.

Agenda Snapshot

  • Tuesday, September 15
    • Arrivals and networking dinner at M Resort Spa Casino
  • Wednesday, September 16
    • Exclusive networking activity at Red Rock Canyon
    • Leadership development presentation and workshop at M Resort Spa Casino

The event agenda will conclude by 4 p.m. on Wednesday.

If you are also planning to attend our Lab Leadership Forum, hosted at the same resort September 17 & 18, you can find the tentative agenda here.

Additional Agenda Details

Networking Dinner at M Resort Spa Casino

We can't wait to welcome you on Tuesday evening with an opportunity to make new connections and strengthen relationships. Kick off your retreat with drinks and dining alongside other attendees.

Networking Activity at Red Rock Canyon

Wednesday morning will be spent in desert and canyon exploration, featuring a curated session that mixes cultural history with structured leadership conversations. Leisurely Networking in Nature walks will give you ample time to strengthen relationships and engage in powerful discussions.

Leadership Development Sessions

Back at the resort, Wednesday afternoon's schedule is packed with more content to elevate your leadership. You'll participate in a workshop, attend a session about problem solving, learn tips for management in this season of AI, and so much more!

Meet the Experts

Much of our retreat programming will be led by a team from Sanitas Advisors. Sanitas specializes in integrating strategy, execution, and innovation, bringing a wide range of expertise to their coaching sessions.

Need Help Convincing Your Boss? 

Participation in this retreat is not only an investment in your future but is also an investment in the future of our industry. The EOL Committee’s Purpose and Vision are outlined here, and our annual retreat serves as our premier gathering for bringing that vision to life. 

We want to support you and are available to talk about the benefits of this event with your leaders. Should a conversation be helpful, please contact Bonnie Whitfield at bwhitfield@thevisioncouncil.org

Cancellation Policy 

For planning purposes, particularly regarding food and beverage contracts with the resort, we are unable to accept cancellation requests after Friday, September 4. We will not be issuing registration refunds after this date. In the event of an emergency requiring cancellation after September 4, please email bwhitfield@thevisioncouncil.org to discuss the best course of action. 

Sponsor the Event

Sponsoring this event is an investment in the future leaders of the vision community. For more information on how to promote your business at this year’s retreat, contact Abigail Crosby, Partnership and Business Development Manager, at acrosby@thevisioncouncil.org

Download Our Sponsorship Information Sheet

Questions? 

If you have any questions about the event or if we can assist in any way as you make travel arrangements, please contact Bonnie Whitfield, Senior Director of Member Services & Events, at bwhitfield@thevisioncouncil.org

Registration