ARVO 2023: Social and networking events abound during conference

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The 2023 Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) annual meeting promises to provide numerous opportunities to meet up with old friends and colleagues and forge relationships with new ones as well as enhance future research and practice endeavors.

This year’s meeting is in New Orleans from April 23 to 27 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The city is replete with old world charm and ambiance and can satisfy any sightseeing, gastronomic, and musical appetites.

In addition to the city experiences that are available, here is a sampling of what will be available through the conference. All times listed are presented in Central Daylight Time. For additional information about any event, visit the ARVO website.

ARVO Foundation Gala

The gala is a pre-ARVO event held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on Saturday, April 22, from 7:30 to10:30 pm. Members and friends of ARVO gather for a semi-formal dinner and celebration to honor individuals and organizations who have shown dedication to the ARVO Foundation and its mission. This year's event has a 'Roaring '20s' theme. A ticket purchase required.

WEAVR Drop-In Mentoring Program

The Women in Eye and Vision Research (WEAVR) opportunity for mentoring runs Sunday, April 23, to Wednesday, April 26, from noon to 3 pm daily at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center at Poster Hall by ARVO Central.

Mid- and senior-level female ARVO members meet with individuals who may be looking for professional guidance from a female perspective.

WEAVR Luncheon

This luncheon, a fundraising event for the ARVO Foundation, is open to all on Tuesday, April 25, and runs from 1:45 to 3:15 in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Tickets can be purchased at registration for ARVO 2023. The proceeds support women in the visual sciences.

Sunday Social

Be there on Sunday, April 23, 7:30 – 10:30 pm at the Fillmore New Orleans, 6 Canal Street, New Orleans!

This is an informal event with a 'Big Easy' flair for any age. Enjoy a live band, New Orleans style activities and entertainment. Attendees must be registered for the ARVO annual meeting to attend. Tickets ($35) for the Sunday Social may be purchased online with registration, or on site Saturday and Sunday (depending upon availability). These tickets are non-refundable.

Editor-in-Chief Meet Up

Monday, April 2, and Wednesday, April 26, from 1:30 to 3 pm attendees can meet the new editors-in-chief of 2 of ARVO’s scientific journals at Poster Hall (ARVO Central) in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Joseph Carroll, PhD, editor-in-chief of Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science and Roy S. Chuck, MD, PhD, editor-in-chief of Translational Vision Science & Technology will answer questions about journal scope, peer review, best practices for improving your manuscript, causes for rejection, and anything else journal-related.

Student/Trainee Social

On Monday, April 24, at 6:30 to 8 pm, members-in-training are invited to join in honoring 2023 travel and research grant recipients at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.This is another opportunity meet with colleagues, make new acquaintances, and meet members of the ARVO Board of Trustees. This is a free event.

Breakfast with an Expert

On Tuesday, April 25, from 7 to 8:30 am attendees can have Breakfast with an Expert in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in a face-to-face setting. is your chance to meet with subject experts for in-depth conversations in a small group setting. The experts will host a table, provide guidance, and answer questions on a specific topic. Those interested can pick the table they are interested in when they register for the annual meeting. Registration for Breakfast with an Expert is $15.

ARVO Karaoke Night

This is an opportunity to gather in the French Quarter on Wednesday, April 26, for cocktails, dance, music, a light snack and a fun time from 9 pm to midnight at Republic NOLA, 828 South Peters Street, New Orleans. Rock the stage and sing your favorite song. You must be 21 years or older to attend this event.

Registration for the ARVO Annual Meeting is required to attend this event; guest tickets are also available with your registration. Tickets ($20) for Karaoke Night may be purchased online, at ARVO Central, or on site between Saturday, April 22, and Wednesday, April 26 (depending upon availability). These tickets are non-refundable.

ARVO’s Got Talent

The third annual ARVO’s Got Talent is a meeting highlight. Attendees can vote for their favorite performers. The prizes are:

• Grand prize—free registration for 2024 Annual Meeting in Seattle.
• Second place—ticket to 2024 WEAVR Luncheon
• Third place—ticket to 2024 Sunday Social.

Winners will be announced on Thursday, April 27, at the 2024 Seattle Kickoff from 2:45 - 3:45 pm in the Exhibit Hall of the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.