Special Events Hosted by CLEO Co-Sponsors
Explore special events and programming hosted by APS, IEEE, and OPTICA throughout CLEO 2026. From networking opportunities to community-driven sessions, these events offer additional ways to connect, learn, and engage.
OPTICA
Meet the Editors. Ask Questions. Learn the Process.
These publishing-focused sessions are open to all CLEO attendees and will take place at the Optica Membership Booth in Exhibit Hall C.
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EST
Optica Publishing Group Meet the Journal Editors
Optica Membership Booth #915, Exhibit Hall C
Join Optica Publishing Group’s journal editors for informal discussion over pastries! Bring your questions about understanding acceptance criteria, responding to reviewers, becoming a reviewer, and more. The editors welcome your questions and comments for any of our journals. All CLEO attendees are welcome!
View Technical Program Listing3:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST
Demystifying the Publishing Process
Optica Membership Booth #915, Exhibit Hall C
Presenters: Irina Novikova, College of William & Mary, and Siddharth Ramachandran, Boston University
Learn publishing how-to’s from Journal of the Optical Society of America B Editor-in-Chief Irina Novikova and Optics Express Editor-in-Chief Siddharth Ramachandran, including manuscript preparation, peer review, and more! All CLEO attendees are welcome.
View Technical Program ListingIEEE
Build Your Network. Find a Mentor. Make Meaningful Connections.
IEEE Photonics Society programming at CLEO 2026 gives students, early-career professionals, members, and volunteers a dedicated opportunity to connect with senior professionals in photonics.
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM EST
IEEE Mentor Match Program
IEEE Member Lounge, CLEO Hub
The IEEE Photonics Society invites attendees, members, and volunteers to participate in a Mentor Match program at CLEO 2026, supported by the Young Professionals Advisory Committee. Designed to help students and early-career professionals, up to 15 years post-degree, expand networks, gain career insights, and connect with senior professionals in photonics.
How it works: Mentor matches are based on technical interests, volunteer experience, and mentorship needs, and are shared by email before the conference. IEEE membership is not required. Flexible, informal interactions include lunch, coffee, technical sessions, and receptions. Complimentary food provided. All Mentor Match participants, IEEE members, and prospective student members are welcome.
Sign-up deadline: Thursday, May 14, 2026.
Sign Up Here
