OSA

The Optical Society of America (OSA) was founded in 1916 in Rochester, New York, by a group of prominent scientists and engineers with the goal of promoting cooperation and interchange among those interested in optical problems. Over its long history, OSA grew from a local association to a global powerhouse in the scientific and technical community, publishing highly influential journals such as *Optica*, *Optics Express*, and *Applied Optics*, and organizing numerous international conferences including CLEO (Conference on Lasers and Electro-Optics) and OFC (Optical Fiber Communication Conference). These platforms were instrumental in disseminating cutting-edge research and facilitating direct engagement among researchers worldwide. Beyond its publishing and conference activities, OSA was deeply committed to education and professional development. It provided a wealth of resources for students, from scholarships and travel grants to mentoring programs and career services, fostering the next generation of optics and photonics leaders. The society also engaged in public policy advocacy, representing the interests of the optics community to governments and funding agencies, highlighting the strategic importance of light science and technology. Its initiatives aimed to enhance public understanding and appreciation of optics, recognizing its critical role in daily life and technological advancement. In 2021, reflecting its expanded global reach and the broader scope of its members' work across the light sciences and technologies, the Optical Society of America officially rebranded as Optica. This change acknowledged the evolution of the field from traditional optics to the broader realm of photonics, and solidified its identity as an international organization. Optica continues the legacy of OSA by connecting researchers, accelerating scientific discovery, and fostering innovation across the diverse disciplines touched by light, maintaining its position as a central pillar of the global optics and photonics community.