Chief Executive Officer 
(780) 488-7028
gbetts@optometrists.ab.ca 

Gabrielle Betts is a strategic and trusted executive leader with a proven record of driving system-wide transformation across government, non-profit, and regulated sectors. As Chief Executive Officer of the Alberta Association of Optometrists, she brings a strong focus on strategic advocacy, organizational excellence, and long-term sustainability in Alberta’s eye care system.

Gabrielle has led province-wide initiatives involving complex regulatory frameworks, intergovernmental collaboration, and sector-wide engagement, including the successful launch of Alberta’s first regulated Extended Producer Responsibility system. Her senior leadership roles in both municipal and provincial governments have spanned public health, education, social policy, and large-scale operational reform, consistently delivering measurable outcomes in high-profile, high-stakes environments.

A recognized community leader, Gabrielle has served on the boards of several organizations committed to public wellbeing and social equity, including the Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services (Vice President), REACH Edmonton, and the SAGE Seniors Association. Her leadership is grounded in good governance, stakeholder trust, and a deep commitment to improving the systems that support Albertans' health and quality of life.

As CEO, Gabrielle is committed to advancing the profession of optometry, strengthening member value, and ensuring all Albertans have equitable access to world-class vision care.

Director of Corporate Operations
(587) 635-1970
alam@optometrists.ab.ca

Annie brings over a decade of experience in corporate operations, building strategies and systems within regulated and public-interest environments. In her role as the Director of Corporate Operations, she provides oversight of corporate governance, performance management, and enterprise systems, ensuring organizational resources are aligned with strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.

Her background includes extensive work within regulatory settings, supporting stakeholders operating in complex compliance environments. Throughout her career, Annie has been instrumental in cross-functional initiatives such as the development of governance and policy frameworks, implementation of data and reporting systems, and the launch of a new regulatory program—balancing efficiency, compliance, privacy, and stakeholder needs.

Annie holds a degree in Business and is known for translating strategy into practical, people-centered execution. She brings a collaborative leadership approach grounded in transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement, and is committed to strengthening organizational capacity that supports members, protects public trust, and enables professional excellence.

Director of Programs, Innovations and Partnerships
(780) 451-6916
vdong@optometrists.ab.ca

Victor has over ten years of experience in senior roles focused on strategy, planning, performance management, and enterprise systems in complex and regulated environments. He’s worked with stakeholders across Canada - government, industry, service providers, and delivery partners - helping turn policy intent into practical, operational outcomes. Throughout his career, Victor has led large-scale, multi-million-dollar programs and systems with province-wide impact. His work has spanned IT, data, finance, and operations, with a focus on clear governance, effective reporting, and building systems that support transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability. He’s known as a systems thinker and a solution-oriented leader who enjoys rolling up his sleeves with teams to move from ideas to execution.

Senior Manager, Communications & Engagement
(780) 455-3017
slicata@optometrists.ab.ca

As the Senior Manager of Communications & Engagement at the Alberta Association of Optometrists (AAO), Sabrina Licata oversees all internal and external communications, strategically shaping the organization’s messaging to advance the profession of optometry in Alberta, provide support to its members, and enhance public awareness of the critical importance of eye health.

Holding a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, a Public Relations Diploma, and a Master of Business Administration, Sabrina integrates strong business acumen with communications expertise to develop initiatives that elevate the AAO’s profile within the community.

In addition to her professional responsibilities, Sabrina has volunteered with the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) and the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), contributing to the advancement of the communications profession.

Accounting Manager 
(780) 451-6824
svonn@optometrists.ab.ca

Savy Vonn serves as the Accounting Manager for the Alberta Association of Optometrists, a leading organization dedicated to promoting excellence in optometry and advancing eye care services for Albertans. With strong expertise in financial management, Mr. Vonn oversees the accounting operations that support the association’s mission to provide leadership and support for its members in delivering world-class eye care.

In his role, Savy Vonn ensures accurate financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance with regulatory standards, contributing to the effective stewardship of the association’s resources. With a practical approach to financial controls and team leadership, he plays a key role in enabling the organization to sustain and grow its impactful public programs such as Eye See… Eye Learn and Eyesafe.

Savy Vonn’s dedication to precision and operational efficiency aligns with the Alberta Association of Optometrists’ commitment to excellence in vision care and public service.