Nominating letters should be addressed to the Executive Vice President and present the candidate's profile in detail. The letters should include the candidate's full name, address, work telephone number, email, and an introductory paragraph that includes comments regarding several items, when they are applicable:
A. Introductory paragraph: This should summarize who the Candidate is and discuss the major reason(s) for the nomination. Comments regarding the Candidate's potential for leadership and his or her character and ethical standards should be included.
B. Clinical practice: Please describe the sub-specialty orientation and clinical responsibilities of the Candidate as well as skills, quality of care, and accomplishments.
C. Scientific productivity: Please discuss the contributions of the Candidate to ophthalmology and medicine, including a brief overview of any important published articles, funded grants, and participation on study sections or editorial boards. Membership in sub-specialty societies should be noted, if applicable.
D. Education: Please identify the Candidate's academic rank and any important participation in teaching activities regarding medical students, residents, fellows, and peers at local, regional, national, and international levels. Participation on specialty boards and AAO committees should be acknowledged, if applicable.
E. Administration: Please mention the Candidate's service to his practice, academic department/other institution, the AAO, governmental agencies, and sub-specialty societies. Include significant leadership titles and responsibilities as well as accomplishments.
F. Public service: Please summarize important contributions that the Candidate has made in the public service arena.
G. Other: Please mention additional unusual or unique aspects of the Candidate's career that are not included in the previous topics and that may have a bearing on the success of his or her candidacy.
Collaboration between the authors of the Nominating and Seconding Letters, prior to submitting them, is desirable. Although the Seconding Letter need not repeat all of the information contained in the Nominating Letter, it should demonstrate that the Seconder has both knowledge of the Candidate's qualifications and enthusiasm for his or her candidacy.