GoodVision Volunteer Spotlight: Chris Burke

Pictured left to right at a 2023 eye industry event: Brian Wong (GVUSA Volunteer), Blair Wong (GVUSA Board President), Jennifer Hyde (GVUSA Associate Director, Partnerships and Strategy), and Chris Burke (GVUSA volunteer).

It takes many dedicated folks to build a non-profit from scratch. Family and friends pitch in- that’s certainly the story of GoodVision. In 2020 when Jennifer Hyde asked her college friend, Chris Burke, to help with communications, designing newsletters, the annual report, and other written materials, Chris said, “I can do that.” Chris spent nearly 40 years as the managing editor of several leading orthodontic journals—a career marked by dedication and excellence, as reflected in the many glowing tributes shared at her 2022 retirement.

For over five years, Chris worked behind the scenes to create materials that tell the story of GoodVision’s transformational work around the world. Chris started by listening to her new colleagues at GoodVision, sitting through long meetings, and learning about the organization. Chris even came to an eye care industry conference from her home in Seattle for a couple years to help set up displays, carry materials, and staff our booth—warmly and passionately engaging with everyone who stopped by.

Chris’s work involved diligently gathering materials and behind the scenes turning these conversations, bits of writing, observations, into coherent and powerful articles and communications about the meaning of our work. Chris’ style is quiet, thoughtful, and modest- never asking for attention for herself, but speaking in a clear voice. Most importantly Chris always found a way to uplift and bring out the best in everyone with whom she worked.

As Chris steps back from her volunteer role, we’re deeply grateful for the intention, hard work, personal resources, and heart she’s poured into GoodVision. Her belief in our mission has never wavered, and her impact will be felt for years to come. We will miss you, Chris!