My name is Alia Cappellani, and I am a residency-trained optometrist in Calgary. Originally from Winnipeg, I earned my Doctor of Optometry from the University of Waterloo in 2020.
During my fourth-year internship, I chose Alberta clinics to experience optometry in a different province with the intention of returning home after graduation. However, after witnessing Alberta’s leadership in optometric care across Canada, I knew this was where I wanted to build my career.
After practicing for two years in Calgary, I pursued a cornea and contact lens residency at NSU Oklahoma College of Optometry, where I sought to expand my clinical expertise in hopes to contribute to my profession's growth back home. My goal is to use the knowledge and experience I’ve gathered to continue the efforts to improve optometry in Alberta for the benefit of optometrists and our patients.
During my residency, I had the privilege of working at the largest multidisciplinary Indigenous health facility in the United States, with focus on ocular disease and perioperative surgical care. I collaborated with local ODs, PCPs, ER doctors, endocrinologists, rheumatologists, and neurologists.
This experience, combined with co-management alongside ophthalmology located hours away, underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaborative care. As primary eye care providers, I am passionate about fostering a stronger collaboration among healthcare professionals in Alberta to ensure our patients receive the best possible care.
Our College and Association have been working diligently toward expanding our scope to include laser and minor surgical procedures. My residency provided me with hands-on experience performing laser procedures, minor surgeries, ordering bloodwork and brain imaging, and conducting PRK and corneal cross-linking surgeries. This valuable training gives me a unique insight into how advanced scope can elevate optometric care.
My experience in Oklahoma, the first state granted expanded scope, positions me well to support advocacy efforts so that Alberta can become the first Canadian province to achieve this milestone. Additionally, as someone of Métis heritage, I am committed to contributing to AAO’s ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity within the profession and communities we serve.
Beyond my clinical work, I believe in the power of personal connections and collaborative environments to foster a sense of community. The AAO consistently provides high-quality educational opportunities, bringing international experts to Alberta, and I am committed to maintaining this tradition through connections established during my residency.
I am running for AAO Council because I want to play an active role in advancing optometry in Alberta, ensuring we continue to offer cutting-edge eye care. I am passionate about advocating for the evolution of our profession, allowing us to practice at the highest standards and leading optometry in Canada.
Optometry has brought me personal growth and lifelong friendships, and I’m eager to dedicate my time to give back. With the work ethic instilled in me as a national Highland dance champion and my drive to continue learning, I believe I’m well-suited to make meaningful contributions to the AAO and our community. Thank you for your consideration.