Join us on Saturday, November 8th for our New Licensee Seminar! This seminar is open to all 2025 NC new licensees. Fall Congress registration is free if you attend ALL events below. 

Schedule

Saturday, November 8

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM – NCOS Overview and Discussion (Lunch to be served)
Attendees will have the opportunity to:

  • Understand the function of our society.
  • Hear the history of optometry in NC and legislative influence in optometry.
  • Understand how the society can help you in your practice.
  • Start the process of becoming a valuable asset to optometry in your district and community.
  • Learn how to become a member and get involved in the North Carolina Optometric Society.
  • Q&A from you!

2:00 PM – Formal Introduction of New Licensees
New Licensees will be recognized in the Grand Ballroom prior to the start of the 2 PM CE lecture.

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM - Celebration of NC Optometry
Join us for drinks and hors d'oeuvres to celebrate NC optometry with beautiful views at the Top of the Plaza! During the evening there will be remarks from the outgoing and incoming President, recognition of your new officers and trustees, our awards presentation, and the ceremonial passing of the gavel. Plus plenty of time to mingle with your fellow ODs. You won't want to miss it!

FAQs

How much does it cost to attend Fall Congress? Registration is FREE to all 2025 NC new licensees!

How do I get free registration? Email Kristen Rauch, Membership Coordinator, at [email protected] to receive a special discount code that you will enter at checkout. You must attend the NCOS Overview and Discussion and the Formal Introduction of New Licensees, as well as the Celebration of Optometry on Saturday evening. If you do not, you will be charged the registration fee.

When do I need to register by? You must register by 10/31/25.

Do I need CE hours? Per the North Carolina Board of Optometry: If you graduated in the spring of the calendar year in which you have been licensed, the Board considers the time spent in your academic training as fulfilling the total requirement for the calendar year; however, all licensees will be required to fulfill the opioid course requirement. Those who are being licensed in a year other than the year of your graduation from optometry school, are expected to meet the total requirement. Click here for more information.

Where can I stay in Asheville? For your convenience, a room block is available at the Renaissance Downtown Asheville at a group rate of $249/night. The room block booking link will be in your confirmation email after you have registered for Fall Congress. Our room block closes on October 22, 2025 or when we run out of rooms, whichever comes first. 

Do I have to be a member of the NCOS to attend? No. This seminar is open to all 2025 NC New Licensees, however we would love for you to join the NCOS! Click here to fill out our online membership application.

What if I have additional questions? Please contact Paul Kranze at [email protected].