Donnie Rhett Koonce is an established North Carolina professional who serves as an ophthalmic assistant with Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, PA. His position involves assisting in research on retinal disease, and has resulted in the publication of a pair of academic papers. Donnie Rhett Koonce’s work has also informed presentations on syphilitic and hydroxychloroquine retinopathy at recent conventions of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Mr. Koonce completed his bachelor’s degree at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and was active with the Lambda Alpha National Anthropology Honor Society. Subsequently attending Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, he earned his MS in biomedical science and undertook research in the area of diabetes in minority populations.

Mr. Koonce was also active as a volunteer, performing glaucoma screenings at a free health clinic and providing low-income, minority elementary school students with tutoring and mentoring. Passionate about sports, he was a member of Collegiate Club Basketball while an undergraduate, and continues to enjoy playing basketball in his free time.